Hull City are eyeing a deal for FC Nurnberg striker Mahir Emreli as new head coach Sergej Jakirovic looks to make his mark at the MKM Stadium early into his tenure.
The 27-year-old will be a free agent when his contract with the 2.Bundesliga club runs out on June 30, and City are keen to snap up the powerful forward in what would be an astute piece of business.
New boss Jakirovic worked with the Russian-born Azerbaijan international when the pair were together in Croatia at Dinamo Zagreb, with the left-footed forward netting 10 goals in 47 games.
During a long stint with Qarabag, Emreli netted 68 times in 187 games and he found the net 11 times in 33 games for Legia Warsaw, while this term, the 54-cap international has scored 11 in 25 in Germany’s second division.
Emreli is a natural front man but can play either side in a front three, which is understood to be an option City are considering as the club looks to bolster the Championship’s most feeble attack. He has vast experience playing in European competitions, including the Champions League and Europa League.
City’s 44 goals scored were the lowest in the league last season and a key contributing reason as to why they only survived relegation on the final day, with João Pedro the leading marksman with just six.
Bolstering their attacking ranks is the biggest priority facing sporting director Jared Dublin and Martin Hodge, who recently arrived as the club’s head of recruitment.
The Tigers remain keen to sign Oli McBurnie following his departure from Las Palmas but face stiff competition from the Scotsman’s former club, Sheffield United.
Jakirovic is keen to meet McBurnie in the hope of convincing him that a move to the MKM Stadium is the right one, and not a return to Bramall Lane.
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