Former Queens Park Rangers loanee Joe Hodge is wanted by League One side Huddersfield Town, according to Football Insider.
The 21-year-old spent the second half of last season at Loftus Road, scoring the winner on his debut against Blackburn Rovers. After starting the next two games, he then struggled for game time, returning to parent club Wolverhampton Wanderers with just eight appearances to his name.
Still, Hodge is highly rated at Molineux, who he joined in 2021 after being released by Manchester City. Prior to his temporary move to the capital, he has been given first team opportunities at Wolves, making 13 outings in all competitions. This led to the Republic of Ireland international being handed a new contract last year which runs until 2027.
With his first loan spell having not exactly gone to plan, a move down to League One now appears to be on the cards. It is said that Huddersfield have entered into talks with the Premier League side over a potential move to the John Smith’s Stadium.
The Terriers are about to embark on their first season in the third tier in 12 years following their relegation from the Championship. A dreadful campaign saw them finish 23rd, six points from safety, and manager Michael Duff is hoping to bounce back at the first time of asking.
They have already made waves in the transfer market, splashing out close to £1 million so far this summer. Lasse Sorensen was the first to arrive for a fee from league rivals Lincoln City, whilst the acquisition of Antony Evans from Bristol Rovers has been lauded. Hodge would further strengthen their midfield options, especially with the departure of Jack Rudoni to Coventry City.
Duff has already made strides in plugging the gap having brought in Herbie Kane following his release from Barnsley.
Writer’s View
Hodge showed glimpses of his obvious talent at QPR last season, but perhaps joined the club at the wrong time. The Hoops were fighting for Championship survival, meaning manager Marti Cifuentes eventually opted for more experienced players to get them over the line.
Wolves have previously shown how much they think of the midfielder by using him sporadically in the Premier League and handing him a long-term contract, but perhaps feel that regular first team football is needed at this stage of his career. Joining a club that is expected to challenge at the top end of League One feels like a great opportunity and one that the player should grasp with both hands.
