Hull City owner Acun Ilicali makes admission on Joe Gelhardt's Leeds United future

Hull City owner Acun Ilicali has publicly addressed Joe Gelhardt's situation, revealing that the club's pursuit of a permanent deal for the Leeds United loanee depends on the Championship side's valuation. Gelhardt, 22, played a crucial role in Hull's promotion to the Premier League this season.

Context: Gelhardt's loan stint and promotion heroics

Gelhardt joined Hull City on a season-long loan in August 2025 and scored 8 goals and provided 5 assists in 34 appearances. His form helped secure a second-placed finish in the Championship, earning the Tigers an automatic promotion spot. The forward's contract at Leeds runs until 2027, with an option for an additional year.

Tactically, Gelhardt operated as a second striker or attacking midfielder under Liam Rosenior's fluid 4-2-3-1 system. His movement in the half-spaces and ability to link play were key to Hull's transitional attacks, contributing 2.1 key passes per game.

Impact: What this means for Hull, Leeds, and Gelhardt

Hull City face a dilemma: meet Leeds' asking price or risk losing the player. Leeds are reportedly holding out for a fee in the region of £10-12 million, which would represent a profit on the £7 million they paid Wigan in 2020. Hull's budget for summer arrivals is limited, with their promotion likely netting them around £100-150 million total, but significant spending is planned across multiple positions.

  • Gelhardt's versatility makes him a valuable asset in the Premier League, capable of leading the line or playing wide. His underlying numbers - 0.45 expected goals per 90 - show he could trouble top-flight defences.
  • For Leeds, selling now would be a financial decision; they face competing priorities under Daniel Farke's rebuild, with several first-team players attracting interest.
  • From Gelhardt's perspective, a permanent move to Hull could offer regular minutes in the Premier League, but a switch to a higher-profile side may materialise if Leeds lower the fee.

What's next: The transfer window deadline looms

Hull City are expected to submit an improved offer in the coming weeks, with Ilicali hinting that talks will intensify. Leeds have already signed two attackers this window, suggesting Gelhardt is surplus to requirements. Unless a Premier League rival enters the race - Crystal Palace and Wolves have been linked in the past - Hull remain favourites. The decision will rest on whether Gelhardt's performances merit a top-flight gamble for the Tigers, who must reinforce their squad to survive.

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