Leeds United forward Joe Gelhardt has rejoined Championship club Hull City on a season-long loan deal. His departure comes just hours after Mateo Joseph joined La Liga club RCD Mallorca.
It is no big shock to see Gelhardt leave Elland Road this summer. The 23-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan with the Tigers after struggling for game time with Daniel Farke's Championship title-winning side. Gelhardt enjoyed a successful loan spell at the MKM Stadium last year, playing a major role in City retaining their Championship status.
The Liverpudlian bagged five goals in 20 appearances for the Tigers as they avoided relegation on the final day of the season. New City head coach Sergej Jakirovic is convinced Gelhardt can thrive in the No 10 role behind the striker or down the middle on his own.
A statement on United's club website read: "With him now rejoining the Tigers, everyone at Leeds United wishes Joffy the best of luck during his time away from the club."
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Gelhardt at United. He still has two years left to run on his Whites deal.
It is understood Gelhardt was told by Whites boss Farke that would not feature in the months ahead following promotion back to the Premier League. The versatile attacker made it clear to Elland Road bosses that he wanted to return to the MKM Stadium, having professed his love for the club in the final weeks of the 2024/25 season.
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Gelhardt was not involved in any of United's public pre-season friendlies. It is thought Gelhardt has been given run-outs in behind-closed-doors matches to maintain his fitness levels and sharpness. The Whites' initial desire was for a permanent transfer.
Our sister title Hull Live says the City had been working on a deal with United to sign Gelhardt for a number of weeks. The Whites have waived any right to a loan fee because the Tigers are unable to pay one, owing to the fee restriction they are currently working under, though the East Yorkshire club will make a significant contribution towards his wages. Gelhardt could potentially make his first City appearance in their Carabao Cup first round tie at Wrexham next week.
The Whites remain on the hunt for attacking reinforcements as the new Premier League season draws ever closer. They host Everton in their league opener on Monday, August 18.
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