Hull City have reached a full agreement to sign Moroccan centre-back Yahya Benkhaleq from FUS Rabat in a move that underlines their intent to rebuild after a fraught Championship campaign.
The 23-year-old defender will join the Tigers on a four-year contract, with the deal worth a reported €800,000. The transfer is expected to be completed once the summer window opens, according to sources in Morocco and Africa Foot.
Hull act swiftly to strengthen defence
Benkhaleq’s arrival represents a significant early investment from Hull following their dramatic final-day escape from relegation. The Tigers stayed in the Championship by virtue of goal difference, finishing level on 49 points with Luton Town but edging their rivals for the final safety spot.
The centre-back has emerged as a standout performer in the Moroccan Botola Pro league, attracting interest from domestic giants Wydad Casablanca before Hull stepped in to secure his signature. FUS Rabat rejected a formal approach from Casablanca after negotiations progressed rapidly with the English side.
After a slow start at Rabat, where he struggled for minutes early in his tenure, Benkhaleq has since cemented himself as a regular starter, playing 24 matches this season and 46 in total since his arrival in late 2022.
His development has not gone unnoticed at international level either. Morocco national team boss Walid Regragui is understood to be monitoring the defender closely, with Benkhaleq named in the provisional squad for upcoming friendlies against Tunisia and Benin in June.
Benkhaleq began his career with Wydad Serghini before joining FUS Rabat in December 2022. His performances in recent months have seen his value rise, with Transfermarkt estimating him at €200,000 — a figure likely to increase following this transfer and possible international recognition.
Writer’s View
This deal ticks all the right boxes for Hull City. At just 23, Yahya Benkhaleq brings both potential and pedigree, having shone in a physically demanding Moroccan top flight. With Hull’s defensive frailties exposed throughout the Championship season, an energetic and technically adept centre-back is exactly the type of signing required.
More significantly, the deal reflects a more proactive, globally-minded recruitment strategy from the Tigers — something that could help them move beyond survival mode and into genuine competitiveness next season.
