Leeds United’s 15-Goal Loan Star Wanted By Newly Promoted PL Club Permanently: What’s The Right Option For Farke? | OneFootball

Joe Gelhardt returned to Hull City on a season-long loan last summer, having initially joined on a six-month arrangement in January 2025. The 24-year-old forward from Liverpool produced arguably the finest campaign of his career at the MKM Stadium, finishing with 15 goals and five assists across all competitions in the 2025/26 season. He scored the second goal in Hull’s 2-0 Championship play-off semi-final victory at Millwall before coming off the bench at Wembley as the Tigers beat Middlesbrough to secure top-flight football.

Leeds United Transfer Stance Over Gelhardt

Hull City have made their desire to sign the attacker permanently very clear. Hull City sporting director Jarred Dublin told The Yorkshire Post that the club’s owner, himself, and the manager had all been vocal about their wish to keep Gelhardt, regardless of which division the club found themselves in. According to The Athletic’s Beren Cross, however, Leeds are in no hurry to rush the deal through for Hull. Cross indicated that Leeds want to survey the wider market first, see which other clubs register interest, and establish what fee they can realistically command before making any decision.

Leeds United‘s asking price is reported to sit between £3 million and £5 million, supported by his strong loan performances, interest from multiple clubs including Rangers, and his contract situation entering its final year. Gelhardt is due back at Elland Road this summer for talks, with one year left on his contract from July onwards.

Leeds United Must Think Beyond Sentiment

HULL, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Joe Gelhardt of Hull City challenges José Córdoba of Norwich City during the Sky Bet Championship match between Hull City and Norwich City at MKM Stadium on May 02, 2026 in Hull, England. (Photo by Ashley Allen/Getty Images)

This is where the story gets genuinely interesting. Leeds United would be making a mistake by rushing a deal to Hull simply because both clubs want it done. A forward who scored 15 Championship goals and contributed to a play-off promotion has real market value, and that value only grows with every passing week of Hull’s Premier League preparations drawing attention his way.

Leeds initially sought £3 to £4 million for Gelhardt last summer, a figure that could now rise considerably after his prolific season, with any fee above £1 million generating profit on the former Wigan Athletic youngster. Sitting tight, letting interest build from other Premier League and Championship sides, and then negotiating from a position of strength makes complete financial sense. Gelhardt himself has been open about his preference, telling Hull Live it is “pretty clear” what he wants, but a player’s desire alone does not set a transfer fee.

Leeds United should sell, and sell well. A fee closer to £5 million protects the club’s financial position while giving a popular player the move he clearly wants. Holding firm and maximising that return is not harsh, it is simply smart business.