Hull City are closing in on a sensational return for Joe Gelhardt, with talks between the club and Leeds United said to be at an advanced stage. The Tigers, who have been tracking the 22-year-old forward for some time, are confident of securing a loan deal that would bring the England Under-21 international back to the MKM Stadium for the remainder of the season. Gelhardt's previous spell on Humberside was cut short by injury, but the club's hierarchy, led by owner Acun Ilıcalı, are determined to give him a second chance to shine in black and amber.

A frustrating first spell

Gelhardt joined Hull City on loan in January 2023, with the club fighting for survival in the Championship. His arrival was met with great excitement, as he had shown flashes of brilliance at Leeds, including a memorable winner against Norwich City in the Premier League. However, a hamstring injury sustained in just his third appearance for the Tigers limited him to a handful of games, and he returned to Elland Road in the summer without having scored. It was a bitter disappointment for all concerned, and the forward has since been eager to prove his worth in the second tier.

Why the Tigers want him back

Hull City's need for a striker has been well documented. The club have struggled for goals this season, with only a handful of players reaching double figures. Liam Delap, who arrived on loan from Manchester City, has shown promise but has also struggled with consistency, while the likes of Aaron Connolly and Adama Traore have failed to fire on a regular basis. Gelhardt, who is comfortable playing as a central striker or in a wider role, would offer a different dimension to the attack. His movement, close control, and ability to drop deep and link play would complement the direct running of Delap and the creativity of the likes of Ozan Tufan and Jaden Philogene.

Leeds' stance and the loan market

Leeds United, now back in the Premier League, are willing to let Gelhardt leave on loan to gain valuable first-team experience. The Whites have a wealth of attacking options, including Patrick Bamford, Georginio Rutter, and Joel Piroe, and they see a temporary move as the best way for the young forward to continue his development. Hull City, who have a good relationship with Leeds from previous dealings, have moved quickly to agree terms, and it is believed that a loan until the end of the season is the preferred option, with no option to buy included.

What Gelhardt would bring to the MKM Stadium

Gelhardt's return would be a major boost for the Tigers as they look to push for a top-six finish. The club currently sit in mid-table, but with the January transfer window providing an opportunity to strengthen, manager Liam Rosenior is keen to add quality to his squad. Gelhardt's Premier League experience, albeit limited, would be invaluable in the Championship, and his hunger to prove himself could make him a key player in the run-in. His ability to play on the shoulder of the last defender or drop into the pockets of space would give Hull City a versatility they have lacked, and his arrival would likely see a shift in formation to accommodate him alongside Delap.

A fresh start for Gelhardt

For Gelhardt, a return to Hull City represents a chance to put his injury woes behind him and reignite a career that promised so much when he burst onto the scene at Wigan Athletic. He has always spoken highly of the club and its fans, and the prospect of playing regular football at the MKM Stadium is an appealing one. The Tigers' supporters, who have taken him to their hearts despite his limited appearances, would welcome him back with open arms, and there is a sense that he has unfinished business in East Yorkshire.

Looking ahead

If the deal goes through, as expected, Gelhardt could be in line to make his second debut for Hull City in the coming weeks. His signing would be a statement of intent from the club, who are clearly ambitious under Ilıcalı's ownership. With the transfer window still open, there may be more business to do, but securing Gelhardt would be a major coup. The Tigers would be getting a player with immense potential, and the chance to see him finally deliver on his promise in black and amber is an exciting prospect for everyone connected with the club. As the season enters its crucial phase, Gelhardt's return could be the catalyst for a strong finish and a push for the play-offs.

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