The Tigers have been busy in the winter window despite their restrictions
Joe Gelhardt was back in from the start against Swansea City on Saturday(Image: Lee Keuneke/PA Wire)
Sergej Jakirovic admits Hull City are coming to the end of their January transfer business, as the Tigers prepare to sign Lewis Koumas from Liverpool.
City have agreed a deal with the reigning Premier League champions to bring in the Welsh international on loan until the end of the season, after his stint at Birmingham City was cut short on Monday.
The arrival of the 20-year-old winger would take their tally to an impressive five, despite working under strict transfer restrictions, which means the club cannot pay loan or transfer fees.
Despite that, however, the Tigers have already brought in Yu Hirakawa and Kieran Dowell, while Paddy McNair and Toby Collyer’s arrivals are expected to be confirmed by the club in the next 48 hours.
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest Hull City news and analysis on our Hull Live FB page
In order for his arrival to be confirmed, City must allow a member of their first team to leave before next Monday night’s 7pm deadline and follow Kasey Palmer, who joined Luton Town late last week.
“Mr Chairman wants attacking players because he’s enjoying us scoring the goals,” the Croatian told Hull Live when asked what more he would like. “I don’t know, and I think that we don’t have space for new players. If someone leaves us, then OK, but right now I think that’s it. I have my players, and I believe that they are the best. They show us in every game that they are good.”
While City have been active in bringing players in, they’ve been determined in keeping players at the club, and one of those has returned to the fold in recent days.
Joe Gelhardt made his return off the bench at Deepdale last Tuesday night and started Saturday’s win over Swansea City. There had been concern that Leeds United could recall the 10-goal forward should they have received a sizeable bid from elsewhere.
Fortunately for City, the deadline for that possibility passed earlier this month, and Jakirovic is pleased to have one of the Championship’s top marksmen back in his ranks, breaking out into a smile at the mere mention of the 23-year-old.
“Joffo is a very good player, and I know how much time I spent with Jared (Dublin) and everyone at the club to try and get him here,” the boss said. “Of course (delighted he’s staying), how many goals has he scored? Ten plus two or three assists?”
Here at Hull Live, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Hull City coverage and analysis.
Make sure you don’t miss out on the latest City news by joining our free WhatsApp group.
You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe. You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service.
Click here to be sent the day’s biggest stories.