Hull City have been revealed to be in pursuit of highly coveted winger Adil Boulbina, but face competition from across Europe.
The Tigers are in the midst of a rebuild following their close shave with relegation from the Championship, and finally confirmed their new manager in Sergej Jakirovic yesterday. Owner Acun Ilicali’s focus now is firmly on the East Yorkshire side, following his resignation from his position on the board at Turkish giants Fenerbahce.
Hull Pursues Algerian Standout
Hull have already made moves in the market in midfield, with City confirming their first signing under the Bosnian manager as Reda Laalouli from the Moroccan side Fath Union Sport, and it looks as if their exploration of the African markets will continue after reports that the club have targeted Adil Boulbina.
The Algerian international has been playing for Paradou AC in his homeland, and has been the standout player with 20 goals in the league this season, including 18 across 24 matches. Journalist Nabil Djellit revealed that Hull have made three offers for the 22-year-old winger, valued up to €1.9 million (£1.6 million).
But they are not alone in the race for Boulbina, with French sides Brest and Lorient have shown interest, while Marseille and Spanish side Real Betis are in pursuit. However, it is the Qatari side Al-Duhail who are in pole position according to Djellit, who have tabled an offer of €3.5 million (£3 million) to Paradou.
Boulbina is not the only attacker Hull is interested in, with frequent links to former loanee Joe Gelhardt. Leeds United have lowered the asking price for their forward to £3 million in order to facilitate a sale as The Whites target Callum Wilson for their Premier League campaign.
Writers’ View
With Reda Laalouli already through the door and now interest emerging in Adil Boulbina, it seems that Acun Ilicali and Hull City have been monitoring the North African leagues ahead of this summer transfer window. Of course, countries like Morocco and Algeria have developed some amazing Championship stars in recent years, with Queens Park Rangers‘ Adel Taraabt and Riyad Mahrez, whilst at Leicester City, being notable examples. With an electric goal record like Boulbina has, it is worth seeing he can make the step up to European and English football, but The Tigers will have work to do if they want to beat Al-Duhail to the signature.
