The Charleston Battery announced on Thursday, August 23, 2026, an agreement to transfer forward Colton Swan to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian FC. Swan will complete the current 2026 USL Championship season and playoffs with the Battery before moving to the Scottish capital when the winter FIFA transfer window opens in January.
As part of the transfer, Charleston is set to receive a six-figure fee and will retain a sell-on clause. Swan is the Battery’s leading goalscorer for the current campaign, having netted 11 goals in 20 appearances across all competitions this season, along with two assists. The 19-year-old was also recognized as the Championship Player of the Month for May.
Hibernian FC Head Coach David Gray expressed satisfaction with the agreement, noting Swan as a talented young striker with attributes suitable for Scottish football, including speed, directness, and a strong work ethic. Hibernian Sporting Director Malky Mackay added that Swan is an exciting, hungry, international-standard footballer eager to test himself in Europe, highlighting his pedigree as a USA U-20 international.
Battery President Lee Cohen stated the organization is proud of Swan and excited for his next career step with a historic club like Hibernian. Cohen noted that Swan is the fourth player transferred by the Battery in the last three years, which demonstrates the club’s commitment to player development and providing pathways to higher-level opportunities. He emphasized that moving a player to the Scottish Premiership, particularly to a club of Hibernian’s stature, is a significant step for the organization, showcasing Charleston as a destination for talented players to develop, compete for championships, and advance their careers.
Swan has represented the United States at the U-18, U-19, and U-20 levels, contributing to the U.S. team’s qualification for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup and 2027 Pan American Games. He joined the Battery after a notable freshman season at Indiana University, where he was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team.
Battery Head Coach Ben Pirmann extended best wishes to Swan, citing his determination, growth mindset, and focus as qualities that will help him succeed in Scotland. Pirmann highlighted the transfer’s significance for Swan, his family, teammates, and the Battery organization, acknowledging the club’s efforts in player development and the transfer process.
Swan expressed excitement for the new challenge and the opportunity to prove himself in a different environment, while also conveying his gratitude to his teammates, staff, and fans in Charleston for their support. He hopes to create more positive memories with the team in the coming months as they push for the 2026 USL Championship Playoffs and a top-four Eastern Conference finish, starting with an upcoming home match against Miami FC.
