Joao Pedro is expected to leave Hull City this summer after just one season at the MKM Stadium.
The veteran forward led the Tigers’ scoring charts but is reportedly set to move on after declining the option of an extended stay.
The 33-year-old signed a one-year deal with City in September following his release from Fenerbahce, joining as a free agent alongside Steven Alzate. While the club retained the option to extend his contract by a further 12 months, local reports suggest Pedro has opted to move on, bringing his brief spell in the Championship to a close.
Despite his short stay, the former Italy international made a noticeable impact. He scored six times in 35 appearances across all competitions and added two assists, becoming Hull’s top scorer in a campaign where goals were hard to come by.
Pedro’s Exit Highlights Need For Firepower
Pedro’s departure will leave Hull manager Ruben Selles with limited options in attack. With only Mason Burstow and Kyle Joseph currently on the books, strengthening the forward line is a clear priority for the Tigers. The club finished the season with just 44 goals — the lowest tally in the division — and must now rebuild without their most consistent threat.
One of Pedro’s most memorable moments came in the clash with Bristol City, when he opened the scoring with a composed finish after turning his marker. However, his afternoon turned sour just 90 seconds later when a reckless challenge saw him shown a red card. The resulting three-game suspension kept him out until late March, further disrupting an already inconsistent season.
Pedro’s likely departure is one of several contract decisions Hull City must make before Saturday’s EFL deadline. Dogukan Sinik, Callum Jones and Brandon Fleming are all out of contract and expected to leave, while veteran winger Nordin Amrabat also looks set to depart after making 10 appearances since signing in January.
Writer’s View
Joao Pedro’s impending exit comes as little surprise. Despite being the club’s top scorer, he never truly settled and at 33, it’s likely both he and the club see greater value in parting ways. His technical quality was evident, but moments like the Bristol red card undercut the momentum he managed to build.
For Hull City, his departure creates a significant gap in attack that must be addressed swiftly. With Ruben Selles looking to reshape the squad, the summer transfer window will be critical. Replacing Pedro’s goals — and adding more alongside them — is vital if City are to climb the table next season. His short stay may be ending, but the need he filled remains glaringly present.
