Hibernian confirmed this morning that they have rejected an offer from Rangers for midfielder Scott Allan.

The offer – for a total of £175,000 with payment terms to be negotiated – was rejected out of hand.

The 23-year-old former Dundee United and West Brom player has a year of his contract to run at Easter Road.

The Championship rivals will meet in Edinburgh on Saturday in the first round of the Petrofac Training Cup.

Leeann Dempster, Chief Executive of Hibernian, said: “There has been a lot of speculation in recent weeks regarding Rangers and their intention to bid for our player. That bid arrived three days before the two sides are due to meet in the first match of the season. It was an easy bid to reject.

“Scott Allan is one of Scotland’s best midfield talents and last season’s Championship player of the year, and any approaches for him are unwelcome.”

Head Coach Alan Stubbs said: “Scott is focused on helping Hibernian to gain promotion this season, and he will be a big player for us in meeting that challenge. He is happy to be at Hibernian and is only focused on performing well for the club and its supporters.”

Allan joined Hibs last summer following his release from West Brom and scored twice in 42 appearances.

And his eye-catching midfield displays earned him the SPFA Championship player of the year award.