Millwall, Stoke and Preston Eye Hull Citys Cody Drameh as Championship Battle Heats Up

Hull City are facing an anxious wait over the future of defender Cody Drameh, with Championship rivals Millwall, Stoke City and Preston North End all reportedly monitoring the 24-year-old. The former Leeds United man has impressed since arriving at the MKM Stadium, but with the transfer window still open, the Tigers may have to fend off interest from across the second tier to keep one of their key assets.

Drameh's Rise at Hull City

Cody Drameh joined Hull City permanently in the summer of 2025 after a successful loan spell from Leeds United. The right-back quickly established himself as a fan favourite, bringing energy, tenacity and attacking intent down the flank. His performances last season were a rare bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent campaign, as the Tigers finished mid-table under Tim Walter. Drameh's ability to bomb forward and deliver dangerous crosses made him a vital cog in Hull's build-up play, while his defensive improvements have not gone unnoticed by rival scouts.

The interest from Millwall, Stoke and Preston is hardly surprising. All three clubs are looking to strengthen their defensive options ahead of a gruelling Championship season. Millwall, under Neil Harris, have long prided themselves on a solid backline, and Drameh's blend of athleticism and defensive discipline would fit their ethos. Stoke City, rejuvenated under new ownership, are seeking to push towards the play-offs and see Drameh as an upgrade on their current right-back options. Preston, meanwhile, are known for their shrewd recruitment and could view Drameh as a long-term replacement for the ageing Sepp van den Berg, who has been linked with a move away.

Hull City's Transfer Dilemma

For Hull City and owner Acun Ilıcalı, the dilemma is clear. Drameh is under contract until 2028, giving the club significant leverage in negotiations. However, with the Tigers not yet in a position to challenge for promotion, a substantial bid could test their resolve. The club's recruitment strategy under Ilıcalı has been to identify young, high-potential players who can be developed and sold for a profit, and Drameh fits that mould perfectly. But losing him now would leave a gaping hole in a squad already lacking depth in defensive areas.

The MKM Stadium faithful will be hoping the club can hold onto their prized asset, at least until January. Drameh's partnership with left-back Matty Jacob was one of the few positives last season, and breaking that up would hinder Hull's attacking fluidity. Moreover, with new signing Ryan Giles arriving from Luton Town, there is a sense that the Tigers are building something under Walter's high-pressing system. Losing Drameh would be a major setback.

What Drameh Would Bring to His Suitors

Should any of the interested parties secure Drameh's signature, they would be getting a player with Premier League experience – he made 12 appearances for Leeds in the top flight – and a hunger to prove himself at the highest level. His versatility is another asset; while primarily a right-back, he can also operate as a wing-back or even on the left flank, making him an attractive option for managers who like to switch formations. For Millwall, Stoke or Preston, Drameh would provide an immediate upgrade and a long-term solution at a position that is notoriously difficult to fill.

Critics might point to Drameh's occasional lapses in concentration, but at 24, he is entering his prime years. His development under Walter has been steady, and a move to a club with more immediate ambitions could accelerate his growth. However, the grass is not always greener; at Hull, he is guaranteed first-team football and has the full backing of the coaching staff.

Historical Context and the Road Ahead

Hull City have a history of losing their best players to rivals – think Jarrod Bowen to West Ham or Andy Robertson to Liverpool – but they have also shown resilience in reinvesting those funds wisely. The Tigers have not been in the Premier League since 2017, and Ilıcalı's ambitious project aims to change that. Selling Drameh now would be a short-term gain, but it could undermine the long-term vision if the money is not spent effectively.

As the transfer window enters its final weeks, Hull City's resolve will be tested. The club's hierarchy must weigh the financial benefits against the sporting risks. With the season already underway, losing a key player now would be particularly disruptive. The Tigers have started brightly, and Walter will want to keep his core squad intact.

For now, Drameh remains a Hull City player, and the fans will hope it stays that way. But with Millwall, Stoke and Preston circling, the next few weeks could define the club's season. If Hull can fend off the interest, they will keep a player who could be instrumental in a push for the top six. If not, they will have to trust their recruitment team to find a suitable replacement – a task easier said than done.

One thing is for certain: the MKM Stadium will be watching closely as the saga unfolds. The Tigers have a proud history of developing talent, and Drameh is the latest in a long line. Whether he stays or goes, his time at Hull City has already made a lasting impression.