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Hull City Pursues Return of Joe Gelhardt and Targets Everton Midfielder Tim Iroegbunam
On 8 December, Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic took to BBC Radio Humberside to reveal the club’s next move in the transfer market. He confirmed that the Tigers are actively pursuing a permanent deal for former Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt and are also eyeing Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam as a potential addition to the squad.
Hull’s ascent to the Premier League for the 2026‑27 campaign came after a Championship play‑off victory, and the club is now focused on bolstering its roster for the first top‑flight season in a decade. The Tigers, who play at the MKM Stadium, already benefited from Gelhardt’s two loan spells in the 2025‑26 season, where he played a key role in their promotion push. Hull’s promotion followed a dramatic play‑off final against a storied opponent, and the Tigers now face the task of bridging the gap between Championship and Premier League quality.
Gelhardt, 24 and currently contracted to Leeds United, has appeared 60 times for Hull across his loan periods. Jakirovic said, "There is no doubt about Joe Gelhardt. I have no doubt because he proves everything on the pitch. Last season – 15 goals and seven assists. 22 times directly involved in a goal. He loves Hull City, he wants to be here, he is very happy here." The forward’s goal‑scoring and creative output were instrumental in Hull’s play‑off success, with 15 goals and seven assists directly contributing to 22 goals that helped secure promotion.
The club’s interest in Iroegbunam comes as Hull prepares for the rigors of the Premier League. The 23‑year‑old defensive midfielder, who joined Everton in June 2024 after a loan spell at Queens Park Rangers, has been praised by Jakirovic for his experience and work rate. "I think there is progress in this player," the manager added. "I like how he is playing and he is very experienced. I think we need this profile for a midfielder and I hope we will sign him. But, we will see. It could be a loan or permanent transfer. There is a lot of exchanging. He is in the last year of his contract which is an advantage for us." Since arriving at Everton, Iroegbunam has been a reliable presence in midfield, covering ground, breaking up play, and contributing to the team’s transition game.
Iroegbunam’s contract with Everton runs until 30 June 2027, giving Hull a window to negotiate a deal before the transfer deadline. The midfielder’s background includes stints at West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa, a loan at QPR, and appearances for England at under‑19 and under‑20 levels, where he earned 13 caps for the U19 side, scored twice, and was part of the squad that lifted the 2022 UEFA European Under‑19 Championship.
Hull’s transfer strategy for the upcoming season focuses on players who have already proven themselves in the Championship or who can adapt quickly to Premier League demands. Gelhardt’s familiarity with the club’s style and the Tigers’ recent success make him a natural target, while Iroegbunam’s defensive midfield credentials could address a gap in Hull’s central areas.
The club’s board has not yet confirmed any offers, and Jakirovic said the club will "finish this job" before the transfer window closes. Hull’s front‑office is reportedly exploring both loan and permanent options for Iroegbunam, and the club’s budget allows for a competitive bid.
As the Premier League season approaches, Hull City will rely on a mix of experienced signings and home‑grown talent to compete against established clubs. The Tigers’ promotion campaign has already set a high bar, and the manager’s clear focus on securing key players like Gelhardt and Iroegbunam reflects the club’s ambition to establish themselves in the top tier. Hull’s opening Premier League fixtures include a home clash with Liverpool and an away trip to Tottenham, tests that will put the new signings to the test.
In the coming weeks, Hull City will monitor the transfer market closely, with the potential arrival of Gelhardt and Iroegbunam poised to shape the squad for the 2026‑27 campaign. With the transfer deadline looming on 31 January, the Tigers’ window for adding fresh talent is narrow, and the board’s patience is tested as the club aims to finalize signings before the deadline, ensuring the Tigers are ready for the challenges of Premier League football.
Hull’s ascent to the Premier League for the 2026‑27 campaign came after a Championship play‑off victory, and the club is now focused on bolstering its roster for the first top‑flight season in a decade. The Tigers, who play at the MKM Stadium, already benefited from Gelhardt’s two loan spells in the 2025‑26 season, where he played a key role in their promotion push. Hull’s promotion followed a dramatic play‑off final against a storied opponent, and the Tigers now face the task of bridging the gap between Championship and Premier League quality.
Gelhardt, 24 and currently contracted to Leeds United, has appeared 60 times for Hull across his loan periods. Jakirovic said, "There is no doubt about Joe Gelhardt. I have no doubt because he proves everything on the pitch. Last season – 15 goals and seven assists. 22 times directly involved in a goal. He loves Hull City, he wants to be here, he is very happy here." The forward’s goal‑scoring and creative output were instrumental in Hull’s play‑off success, with 15 goals and seven assists directly contributing to 22 goals that helped secure promotion.
The club’s interest in Iroegbunam comes as Hull prepares for the rigors of the Premier League. The 23‑year‑old defensive midfielder, who joined Everton in June 2024 after a loan spell at Queens Park Rangers, has been praised by Jakirovic for his experience and work rate. "I think there is progress in this player," the manager added. "I like how he is playing and he is very experienced. I think we need this profile for a midfielder and I hope we will sign him. But, we will see. It could be a loan or permanent transfer. There is a lot of exchanging. He is in the last year of his contract which is an advantage for us." Since arriving at Everton, Iroegbunam has been a reliable presence in midfield, covering ground, breaking up play, and contributing to the team’s transition game.
Iroegbunam’s contract with Everton runs until 30 June 2027, giving Hull a window to negotiate a deal before the transfer deadline. The midfielder’s background includes stints at West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa, a loan at QPR, and appearances for England at under‑19 and under‑20 levels, where he earned 13 caps for the U19 side, scored twice, and was part of the squad that lifted the 2022 UEFA European Under‑19 Championship.
Hull’s transfer strategy for the upcoming season focuses on players who have already proven themselves in the Championship or who can adapt quickly to Premier League demands. Gelhardt’s familiarity with the club’s style and the Tigers’ recent success make him a natural target, while Iroegbunam’s defensive midfield credentials could address a gap in Hull’s central areas.
The club’s board has not yet confirmed any offers, and Jakirovic said the club will "finish this job" before the transfer window closes. Hull’s front‑office is reportedly exploring both loan and permanent options for Iroegbunam, and the club’s budget allows for a competitive bid.
As the Premier League season approaches, Hull City will rely on a mix of experienced signings and home‑grown talent to compete against established clubs. The Tigers’ promotion campaign has already set a high bar, and the manager’s clear focus on securing key players like Gelhardt and Iroegbunam reflects the club’s ambition to establish themselves in the top tier. Hull’s opening Premier League fixtures include a home clash with Liverpool and an away trip to Tottenham, tests that will put the new signings to the test.
In the coming weeks, Hull City will monitor the transfer market closely, with the potential arrival of Gelhardt and Iroegbunam poised to shape the squad for the 2026‑27 campaign. With the transfer deadline looming on 31 January, the Tigers’ window for adding fresh talent is narrow, and the board’s patience is tested as the club aims to finalize signings before the deadline, ensuring the Tigers are ready for the challenges of Premier League football.
