Hibs and Hearts were both linked with pre-contract swoops for an Aberdeen star.
Both Edinburgh clubs were said to be looking at Dons midfielder Jamie McGrath, who started this season on fire but is currently out injured.
Out of contract at the end of this season, the Irishman was also attracting interest from MLS sides.
McGrath’s incredible Aberdeen stats at the beginning of this campaign were a big contributing factor in Jimmy Thelin’s side’s brilliant unbeaten start to the season as they challenged at the top end.
So it will be a blow to lose him to a rival and it is Hibs who have landed a coup.
Gray reacts as Hibs sign Jamie McGrath
The Easter Road men have announced the pre-contract signing of the 28-year-old, who will now join up with his new teammates for pre-season.
He has signed a long-term deal which will keep him in Leith for four years.
The Hibees have announced the signing this morning as they seemingly get one over on two of their biggest rivals.
And David Gray told the Hibs website: “We’re delighted to have agreed a pre-contract with Jamie. He’s a player that we’ve admired for some time.
“He’s a creative player that will add extra quality in our midfield and in the final third.
“It’s clear to everyone that he’s been a stand-out performer in the Scottish Premiership over the last few years, and his experience and character will add to our dressing room.
“We all look forward to working with Jamie in the summer.”
Hibs sporting director Malky Mackay on McGrath
Mackay hinted at further deals, adding: “We have been working behind the scenes ahead of the summer transfer window, to ensure we bring the best possible players into the Football Club.
“Jamie is someone that has been performing at a high level for a number of years, and is a great example of the calibre of player we want to bring to this club.
“The character and personality of any player we bring into our squad is so important and Jamie is an exceptional person and professional.
“We look forward to welcoming The McGrath family to Leith and hope that Jamie has a long and successful career in a Hibs strip.”