Hull City have received a £5.1million bid from an unnamed La Liga club for Colombian midfielder Gustavo Puerta.
The Tigers are expected to reject the offer as they hold out for a higher fee, with the player’s future likely to be decided in the coming days.
La Liga Interest Amid Transfer Uncertainty
Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra has reported that the Spanish club’s bid equates to €6million, but Hull’s valuation is understood to be higher. Puerta’s situation is complicated by the ongoing EFL transfer embargo, with the midfielder’s permanent move from Bayer Leverkusen yet to be finalised.
His loan spell at the MKM Stadium last season saw him make 31 appearances as Hull narrowly avoided relegation. A clause in his agreement triggered an obligation to buy him for £3million following his appearance at Swansea City on Good Friday, but that deal remains unratified while the club awaits the verdict of its appeal against the transfer restrictions.
The independent panel hearing, held last Wednesday, was expected to deliver a decision within 48 hours. However, the timescale has been extended to allow further consideration, leaving several pieces of business on hold.
Midfield Reinforcements Still a Priority
Manager Sergej Jakirović has made strengthening central midfield a key priority before the 1 September deadline, regardless of Puerta’s fate. Manchester United’s Toby Collyer is reportedly on Hull’s radar, but any deal will depend on the EFL’s ruling.
Puerta’s combative style and composure in possession made him a regular starter during his first season in English football, and his influence in the middle of the park was crucial in the club’s survival push. Losing him now would be a blow to Jakirović’s plans, particularly with the season already underway.
Writer’s View
This bid places Hull City in a delicate position. While the fee represents a sizeable profit on the obligation-to-buy price, the uncertainty surrounding the transfer embargo makes timing everything. Selling Puerta without a green light from the EFL to sign a replacement could leave the squad short in a key area. Jakirović will want the matter resolved quickly so that the club can either cash in and reinvest or secure one of his most trusted midfielders for the season ahead.
