Joe Gelhardt exit: Hull movement expected for Leeds United ace in next 24 hours
Joe Gelhardt’s loan move from Leeds United to Hull City is expected to move towards completion “in the next day or so”, according to Baz Cooper.
The Hull Daily Mail journalist posted on X (8 January) to report that with Matt Crooks set to arrive from Real Salt Lake, Hull are now expecting to push towards completing their move for Gelhardt shortly.
Gelhardt is the only player expected to leave LS11 this month with Hull one of several sides interested in the 22-year-old, but a temporary switch to East Yorkshire beckons as the Tigers close in on a deal.
Cooper said: “Loads going on at Hull City. Crooks is done, expecting movement on Gelhardt and one, two or three others in the next day or so.”
Joe Gelhardt January transfer exit beckons at Leeds United
In January transfer windows down the years, the Whites have been guilty of doing their business far too late to leave any wriggle room when it comes to exploring a plan B option – just ask Daniel James.
James may have ended up at Elland Road two and a half years after his botched deadline day move from Swansea in January 2019, but his tale is a cautionary one for any club looking to strengthen in January.
Hull certainly seem to have got the memo when it comes to their own incomings, and facing a battle at the bottom of the Championship rather than the top, have little time to waste in terms of strengthening.
While the Peacocks are a point clear at the summit, there is a feeling among United fans that in order to all-but guarantee promotion, strengthening up front (as well as between the sticks) is necessary.
If and when Gelhardt’s move across Yorkshire is confirmed, the Elland Road faithful will be expecting an upgrade in his position, and Hull’s early move for the 22-year-old gives United plenty of time to find one.
In other Leeds news, Thorp Arch sources have said why selling one standout player last summer was a “blessing in disguise”.
For more Leeds news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.