Hibs open Thicot talks

Mixu Paatelainen is hopeful of securing French youngster Steven Thicot on a permanent deal.

Manager Paatelainen impressed by Frenchman's potential

Hibernian manager Mixu Paatelainen is hopeful of securing French youngster Steven Thicot on a permanent deal. Thicot is a free agent after he was released by his former club Nantes at the end of last season. The 21-year-old is currently on trial at Hibs and featured in Thursday's 6-0 friendly match defeat against Barcelona. Paatelainen feels Thicot has promise, and has revealed talks are under way over bringing the versatile midfielder to Easter Road. "He is a good player, he can play various roles and we are now working hard towards a contract. Hopefully, he will join us," Paatelainen told the Scotsman. "Steven has been through all the national teams in France, he's played with all the top names. He has plenty of ability and he tells me he is a very ambitious player which I like."