The Charleston Battery announced on Thursday, August 23, 2026, an agreement for the transfer of 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 club 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, 19, is currently the Battery’s leading goalscorer in the 2026 campaign, with 11 goals in 20 appearances across all competitions, along with two assists. He was also voted the Championship Player of the Month for May.
Hibernian Head Coach David Gray expressed satisfaction with the agreement, noting Swan’s potential as a young striker with attributes suitable for Scottish football, including his speed, direct play, and 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 club 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. Battery Head Coach Ben Pirmann wished Swan the best, emphasizing his determination and growth mindset.
Swan has represented the United States at the U-18, U-19, and U-20 levels, contributing to the U.S. earning 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.
Swan will continue to play a key role in the Battery’s push for the 2026 USL Championship Playoffs and will contend for the league’s Young Player of the Year award. His final home match with the Battery is scheduled for Saturday against Miami FC.
