Pars insist Hibs have not tabled bid for Williamson
Dunfermline are bracing themselves for firm interest from Hibernian in Ryan Williamson – but insist there has been no bid for the defender.
The Easter Road outfit have enquired about the Scotland under-21 cap’s availability in previous transfer windows but it is understood the two clubs have been a significant distance apart in their valuation of the full-back.
The Pars are seeking at least a six-figure sum for the 22-yearold, who has another season left on his contract.
The youngster has been linked in the past with interest from English Championship side Derby County and has impressed Hibs boss Neil Lennon with his displays in recent times.
Although there has been no contact between the clubs so far, Dunfermline are clearly aware of Hibs’ long-standing interest in the right-back.
Manager Allan Johnston said previously: “You can just see how much he’s progressing every year, so it’s no surprise that bigger clubs are looking at Ryan.”
Hibs are now said to be trying to put together a package, possibly including a swap deal, that could tempt the Fifers to cash in on a player they do not want to lose.
Williamson has twice had to battle back from serious injury since making his firstteam debut aged 17 in August 2013, with a dislocated kneecap being followed by a horrific double leg break.
But the three-times capped under-21 internationalist put his injury worries firmly behind him last season with 46 appearances for the Pars, and a first-ever senior goal, which was scored in front of the watching Sir Alex Ferguson.
Hibs fans are still waiting for Lennon to make his first new signing of the summer, with permanent deals for on-loan Swiss striker Florian Kamberi and Celtic midfielder Scott Allan, and a move for St Mirren midfielder Stevie Mallan, thought to be top priorities.