Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirovic says he’s encouraged by the quality of players wanting to join his new-look Tigers outfit, though he admits the club’s transfer problems are having an impact.
City have been unable to sign any players since the EFL imposed strict restrictions on who they can and can’t bring in, so far adding just free transfers Dillon Phillips and Semi Ajayi. Those restrictions have already ended any hope, for now at least, of signing Oliver McBurnie after the EFL made it clear the former Sheffield United striker’s wage demands would not be signed off.
It’s also likely the club will lose Reda Laalaoui and Gustavo Puerta, unless a resolution can be found quickly with those deals not going through. Striker Matija Frigan is thought to be close to a move to the MKM Stadium on loan from Belgian side Westerlo, but that deal will need to be rubber-stamped by the EFL, who have grown increasingly concerned about City’s cash flow issues and their ability to keep up with their existing transfer payment commitments on players signed previously, let alone any fresh moves.
Jakirovic, who is desperate to add attacking players to his squad, says conversations with potential recruits have been positive, but there remains one major hurdle, and that surrounds the outcome of the club’s appeal against a three-window transfer fee restriction.
“I expect (new signings) every day because I spoke with a few players, we had a good conversation, very, very good feedback, but then after this decision they are a little bit calculating, so we must wait a little bit,” the Bosnian told Hull Live.
“Yes, of course (it is frustrating), because in just three weeks, we start the Championship season. Every day, we need maybe a new player because he needs time to adapt. We’re also researching such a type that they need less adaptation time in the Championship or with the team, but I hope we will find somebody.”
While Jakirovic believes he has talent in his existing squad, he’s under no illusions about the need to add strength in depth, especially in the forward ranks, but admits he can only do so much when it comes to presenting his and the club’s case.
“Yes, for sure, because I’m always searching for players for the first 11, not for the rotation player. Especially up front, we need numbers like I mentioned before, so I try to convince them because they will play, but it’s their decision, not mine.”
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