Hull City midfielder Gustavo Puerta has admitted he is aiming for a move to a “bigger club” this summer after a breakthrough loan spell in the Championship.
The Colombian international joined the Tigers on loan from Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen last summer and has gone on to make 26 appearances under Rubén Sellés. The 21-year-old says he has now fully adapted to European football and is targeting the next step in his career once his loan ends.
Puerta made the switch to Leverkusen from Bogotá FC in early 2023, but opportunities at the BayArena were limited. A short stint at Nürnberg followed, and the decision to send him to England has paid dividends, with the midfielder impressing with his dynamism and maturity on the ball.
“I hope to move to a bigger club” – Puerta
Speaking to Colombian outlet El VBar de Caracol Radio, Puerta opened up about the challenges of adapting to life in Europe and his desire to continue progressing.
“I’ve already completed years in Europe. The adaptation has gone from less to more. I can now say that I’ve adapted to the food, the people, and the European culture; that’s the hardest part for me to feel better on the pitch. I’ll keep working and hope to move to a bigger club next season to continue demonstrating my quality.”
Puerta also reflected on his move to England and the intensity of the Championship, describing it as one of the toughest leagues to compete in.
He said the league’s physicality and pace demand constant concentration, but credited current Hull boss Sellés for helping him settle, particularly with the benefit of shared language and tactical understanding.
With his contract at Leverkusen running until 2028, the German club now face a decision over whether to reintegrate Puerta or cash in on his rising value this summer.
Writer’s view
Puerta’s comments suggest a player full of confidence and eager to test himself at the highest level. His development at Hull has been steady and eye-catching, especially under Rubén Sellés. If he maintains his current trajectory, interest from top-tier sides may not be far off. Whether that next move comes via Leverkusen or elsewhere, Puerta looks like a talent on the rise – and Hull fans will be watching his next step closely.
