The striker is currently on loan at high-flying EFL Championship side Hull City
Rangers continue to monitor the progress of Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt, who is currently in the form of his life at Hull City.
After being farmed out to the MKM Stadium for six months last season, Gelhardt returned to Hull for another year in the summer. His 13 goals for The Tigers this time around have helped them to fifth in the Championship table, as they seek regain their status in the Premier League for the first time since 2017. He has also been loaned out to Sunderland during his time at Elland Road.
The 23-year old has been a player Rangers have expressed an interest in for years, but with the current connection between Leeds and the Light Blues through the 49ers Enterprise, they may now have a leg up on any transfer competitors also looking to acquire Gelhardt’s service. Leeds chairman, Paraag Marathe, was vice-chairman in Govan until February and still has a strong relationship with Andrew Cavenagh.
49ers link can prove key in race for Gelhardt
According to prominent journalist, Alan Nixon, Rangers could using their links with the Elland Road to their advantage in their pursuit of Gelhardt. He said via Patreon: “Hull City star Joe Gelhardt is being watched by Rangers as they look for talent next season. Gelhardt is on loan from Leeds United and having his best season - living up to the promise of his younger days at Wigan.
“The Scottish giants have been tracking him lately, with one eye on improvements for their squad as they challenge for honours. There is an obvious link between Leeds and Rangers through their ownership and a loan switch or even buy could be arranged. Hull would like to have Gelhardt back but the terms may be different next season and at a level that would stretch them if they stay in the Championship.”
Gelhardt could perhaps ask a few of his current teammates for advice on an Ibrox move. Former Rangers men, John Lundstram, Kieran Dowell and Matt Crooks are all currently plying their trade in Yorkshire, while prominent Gers fan, Oli McBurnie, has also been a regular feature for The Tigers.
Gelhardt difference-maker for hunting Tigers
Along with the likes of Middlesbrough, Ipswich Town and Wrexham, Hull currently occupy one of the Championship play off spots. They’re also only five points adrift of Millwall in second, which would see them secure automatic promotion.
Hull boss, Sergej Jakirovic, admitted he had a major part to play in Gelhardt returning to Hull after his performances last season and believes he could easily play at the highest level in the future. He said of his striker: “When I watched him in last season’s games, I begged Mr Chairman (Acun Ilicali) to bring him back here.
“He likes playing here and he wanted to come back here. He has a completely different profile to the players we have. He has the quality to play in a number of positions and is able to pass, shoot and has speed, which is special. He’s 23 years old and maybe he can reach the Premier League. But, right now, he’s made the difference.”
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