Hull City are facing a financial roadblock, with late payments resulting in a transfer embargo. While the Tigers await the results of an appeal, free deals and loan signings have been utilised to bolster the squad.
Following Ruben Selles’ dismissal, despite maintaining Hull as a second division side against the odds last season, Sergej Jakirovic has been brought in to help stabilise the club further. One familiar addition could help this, with Joe Gelhardt returning to the East Yorkshire side after a somewhat successful spell last campaign.
The Leeds United attacker featured 20 times in the 2024/25 season, after signing on a six-month loan during the January window. Gelhardt found some decent form towards the end of his spell, with Hull fans optimistic of a return this year. Four goals came in his last 12 appearances, with a brace against Preston North End critically claiming three points for the Tigers.
Gelhardt Feeling Great To Be Back
As Hull’s February and March Player of the Month, the 23-year-old had this to say about returning to the KCOM Stadium for another spell:
“It feels amazing. I made it clear I wanted to come back here.
“I loved my time here last year – everyone was so welcoming and friendly. It’s a great club to be at, and the lads have spoken very highly of the new manager.
“The people here, the city, the fans – everything about last season was just the perfect match. I was probably the happiest I’ve been in my football career during the last few months I spent here last year.
“It’s a season-long loan this time, so being in from the start and having a whole year with the lads is going to be better than three or four months.”
On the general squad quality and ambition for the season ahead, Gelhardt prioritised appraisal as he spoke about high hopes:
“We know we can do a lot better than last season. With the new signings, we’ve got a lot of quality in the team.
Writer’s View
This is a smart piece of business by Hull, with Gelhardt a clear fan favourite during his spell with the Tigers. Jakirovic will be hoping to get the best out of a new versatile option. The 23-year-old can play in the attacking-midfield role or be utilised as competition on both wings – with Liam Millar and Mohamed Belloumi returning from anterior cruciate ligament and knee injuries.
While five goals in 20 games isn’t necessarily setting the Championship alight, the Leeds loanee’s general play has been important for the East Yorkshire side. With a potential tip for relegation, this latest addition will deter some of those predictions.
