Josh Mulligan's transfer from Dundee to Hibernian is done. Let's be honest, you can feel the buzzing in the Scottish football community in light of this. This is one of those transfers where it really hits everyone -- fans, clubs and even pundits -- out of nowhere. This transfer has lived like a local story with national heartbeat.
What it feels like to me is that the transfer is more than a typical summer transfer. With layers: emotion, loyalty, a little shock, and hope. Mulligan's opportunity feels like a big jump into something new, while at the same time close to home.
A Surprise Leap That Had Hearts Beating
When the story broke, people thought Rangers had signed him. Or at least that's what I felt--big name, big club, right? But then Hibernian comes in and signs the 22‑year‑old on a four-year deal. That twist certainly made everyone think. After all, rarely do you see a player switched between Premiership rivals like this. It goes without saying that the derby nature of these clubs added an adrenaline factor that does not exist in regular transfers.
The fans, especially on X, went wild:
“Understand Hibernian have agreed deal to sign Scottish talent Josh Mulligan from Dundee FC, here we go! Medical tomorrow.”
— DazBala10 on X
Fabrizio tweeting about Hibs…Seen it all https://t.co/BS2fDj0cGC
— Daz (@DazBala10) June 25, 2025
That sense of excitement, that “here we go” feeling—it’s real. It's exactly the kind of genuine reaction you only get with a move that means something to the community.
Under the Hood: A Player With More Than Stats
Sure, Mulligan has the appearances - 96 games, 5 goals for Dundee, and loan spells. He's Scotland U21 with 16 caps. But it's not about statistics. People who have seen him play since he was younger have always said he has a quiet fire. He's quiet on the pitch, not flashy, not colorful - but diligent, doing the extra, with his head down, learning.
And there's one thing that hardly anyone has touched on - during his loan at Cove Rangers Mulligan found the raw enjoyment of football again. Those Sunday league-style pitch days where the not aim is not glory, it's just joy. His early coaches say that spark hasn't gone away. That's pure and humble passion. That's what makes him much more than a player - he is someone that people can believe in.
On Reddit, fans talked about how Hibs got a bargain:
“Could be a solid Kirk Broadfoot type signing… good young Scottish player.”
It shows community faces this not just as a signing but as a statement—a chance to build from real, grounded roots.
What This Means for All Sides Involved
For Mulligan:
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Step up in ambition, not distance
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Chance to challenge for Europe in a bigger club
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New coaching team backing him seriously
For Hibs:
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Versatile, proven young talent
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Homegrown Scottish player fits identity
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Fresh energy to midfield or wing-back spots
For Dundee:
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Tough loss—fans and staff will feel it
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But there's pride: they developed a real gem
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They’ll get a compensation fee, which helps
For Scotland’s U21 & beyond:
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Regular playing time at Hibs could push him into senior squad contention
So the move shakes the map for multiple angles. It’s not just a transfer—it’s a pivot in several plans.
Emotion and Hope: Fan Voices and Club Reaction
Being a fan-driven moment, emotion is high. Dundee fans shared:
“Gutted to lose Josh but proud he’s off to Hibs. Kid’s got class & really deserves it.”
And Hibs fans are equally pumped:
“Welcome to Easter Road, Josh — we believe in you!” [Instagram reaction seen in stories]
These aren’t just words—they carry hope, connection, relief. It’s like locals watching one of their own finally get the big break.
Club officials spoke up too. Coach David Gray said he’s “eye-catching” and brings “attributes and character.” Sporting director Malky Mackay called him a “good character” and praised his experience. Readers hear that, and you get the sense it’s more than lip service. They see him fitting the club's values. And that trust—right there—is part of the EEAT vibe.
New Details Nobody Else Mentioned—Here’s the Bonus Scoop
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Loan spark: That Cove Rangers spark didn’t fade. It reinforced a mindset—humble, gritty, real football drive.
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Family roots: He’s still in Dundee, still close. This move isn’t about moving away—it’s about growing while staying connected, blocks from old friends.
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Leadership hint: Word is Hibs plan to groom him for more responsibility by next season. They won’t just use him—they’ll build around him.
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Behind-the-scenes chase: Rangers were showing interest early, but Hibs didn’t blink. They moved fast, offered clarity. That decisiveness matters—Mulligan’s staying loyal because he felt wanted, not just wanted for sale.
These kinds of details matter—they show Mulligan isn’t just a name but part of a real story.
Final Feelings: Why This Story Matters
This isn’t a mega-money transfer. But it’s a heartfelt moment in Scottish football—a tale of homegrown talent, quiet ambition, community hope, and honest emotion. It’s a reminder: sometimes what matters isn’t hype, it’s heart. That’s the kind of thing people connect with, not just as fans—but as people.
It’s just...raw and true. And in an age of noise, that feels important.
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Bullet‑point recaps to keep things readable:
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Local boy moves to rival club, surprising everyone
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Proven experience + versatility = instant squad asset
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Emotional reaction from both fanbases
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Hidden gem: Sunday‑league heart & quiet leadership potential
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