Montrose FC have accepted a bid from Elgin City for the permanent transfer and return of striker Kane Hester to the League 2 side.

The 29-year-old arrived at Links Park in the Summer of 2023 as the Club’s record transfer signing and has since made 65 appearances for Stewart Petrie’s side, scoring 21 goals.

Explaining the decision to sell the striker, Chairman John Crawford said, “This situation has been very complex and fast moving, and one we were not expecting. With more than one club making serious enquires about Kane, we sat down with the Management team and the player to agree what was best for all parties going forward. The outcome of this discussion, after much deliberation, was to accept the offer from Elgin and allow Kane to return to Borough Briggs.”

Manager Stewart Petrie added, “This is a great deal for all concerned. We didn’t want to lose Kane but ultimately this is a great deal for the Club, and we will look to replace him if we feel the right person becomes available who ticks all the boxes.

“We would like to thank Kane for everything he has done at Links Park and wish him all the very best for the future.”

Despite this departure, January has been a busy period for the Gable Endies with the arrival of loanees Callum Sandilands from Hearts, Owen Stirton from Dundee Utd and just earlier today, Kieran Freeman from Raith Rovers.