Stoke, Millwall and Preston dealt blow as Hull City stand firm on Cody Drameh

Hull City have thrown a significant spanner in the works for Championship rivals Stoke City, Millwall and Preston North End by making it abundantly clear that Cody Drameh is not for sale this summer. The Tigers' resolute stance comes as a major blow to the trio, who had been monitoring the right-back's situation at the MKM Stadium with keen interest.

The Tigers' firm stance

According to reports, Hull City have informed interested parties that Drameh, 24, is an integral part of head coach Tim Walter's plans for the upcoming campaign. The former Leeds United academy product has impressed since his permanent switch to East Yorkshire, and the club's hierarchy, led by owner Acun Ilıcalı, are determined to build a squad capable of challenging for promotion back to the Premier League.

Drameh's versatility – capable of operating as a traditional full-back or as a wing-back – makes him a valuable asset in Walter's fluid system. His attacking forays down the right flank have become a hallmark of Hull's play, and his defensive solidity has not gone unnoticed. The Tigers' refusal to entertain offers, even in the region of £5 million, underscores their ambition and the value they place on the former England youth international.

Stoke City's search continues

For Stoke City, this news is particularly frustrating. The Potters have been in the market for a right-back all summer, with manager Steven Schumacher eager to add competition for the out-of-favor Junior Tchamadeu. Stoke's interest in Drameh had been well-documented, and they were reportedly prepared to test Hull's resolve with a formal bid. However, with the Tigers digging their heels in, Schumacher will now have to pivot to alternative targets.

The bet365 Stadium outfit have already been active in the transfer window, but the right-back slot remains a priority. Names such as Liverpool's Conor Bradley and Arsenal's Brooke Norton-Cuffy have been mentioned, but neither is likely to be available on a permanent basis. Stoke may now have to explore loan options or look abroad, with the likes of Anderlecht's Killian Sardella and Club Brugge's Maxim De Cuyper being scouted.

Millwall and Preston left in the lurch

Millwall's interest in Drameh had been piqued by his physicality and defensive nous – attributes that would fit seamlessly into Neil Harris's robust Lions side. The Den has long been a fortress for teams that rely on organisation and resilience, and Drameh's ability to nullify tricky wingers would have been a welcome addition. However, with Hull's valuation proving prohibitive, Millwall may now turn their attention to more affordable options.

Preston North End, meanwhile, have been tracking Drameh as a potential replacement for the departed Brad Potts. Ryan Lowe's side have enjoyed a solid start to the season, but the right-back area has been a concern. Preston's interest was genuine, but they too have been rebuffed. The Lilywhites may now look to the loan market, with Tottenham's Djed Spence and Manchester City's Callum Doyle among those considered.

Hull City's ambitions

For Hull City, retaining Drameh is a statement of intent. The Tigers have been one of the Championship's busiest clubs this summer, with Ilıcalı sanctioning significant investment in the squad. The Turkish media mogul has made no secret of his desire to see Hull back in the top flight, and keeping hold of key players like Drameh is essential to that project.

Drameh, who joined Hull from Leeds in 2023, has become a firm favourite among the fanbase at the MKM Stadium. His marauding runs and tireless work rate have endeared him to the Tigers faithful, and his importance to the team cannot be overstated. With the new season underway, Walter will be relying on Drameh to provide the attacking thrust from deep that has become a hallmark of his side's play.

Looking ahead

As the transfer window edges towards its conclusion, Hull City's resolve will be tested. The interest from Stoke, Millwall and Preston is unlikely to disappear overnight, and a late bid could yet force the Tigers' hand. However, all indications suggest that Drameh will remain at the MKM Stadium for the foreseeable future.

For the suitors, the search for a right-back must now continue. The Championship is a relentless division, and squad depth is crucial. Stoke, Millwall and Preston will need to move quickly to secure alternatives before the window slams shut. Meanwhile, Hull can take heart from their ability to fend off interest in one of their prized assets – a clear sign that the Tigers are no longer a selling club. With Drameh staying put, the East Yorkshire outfit can focus on the task at hand: climbing the table and mounting a genuine promotion push.