Daniel Farke has several big decisions to make this summer, and one Leeds United player now looks increasingly likely to head for the exit door before the new season gets underway.
After an encouraging return to the Premier League that ended with a 14th-place finish, Leeds have shifted their focus to the transfer market and the task of strengthening the squad for the campaign ahead.
The club want to add more quality, depth and match-winning ability in key areas, but bringing players in is only one part of the summer’s work. Leeds are also aware that they need to trim and refresh the squad, meaning departures will be just as important as arrivals.
Several players have already been linked with moves away from Elland Road, including Pascal Struijk, Wilfried Gnonto and Lucas Perri, as the club begin shaping their plans for next season.
However, the club are now ready to take more time and assess the market before selling a prized asset who does not have a future at Elland Road.
Leeds United ready to take more time with Joe Gelhardt
Joe Gelhardt played a major role in getting Hull City promoted, and the Tigers have not hidden their interest in signing the forward on a free transfer.
The Leeds forward is also keen to return to the MKM Stadium and play in the Premier League with Hull. The club have been keen to get a deal over the line soon with Leeds.
However, the Athletic’s Beren Cross has indicated that Leeds are in no hurry to sell the forward to Hull this summer.
He insisted that Leeds will like to see how many clubs are interested in Gelhardt and are prepared to offer what amount of money before a decision is made.
The forward will be sold, but any quick deal to sell him to Hull is on hold.
Cross wrote: “Exactly the kind of loan spell he would have hoped for at Hull City. Gelhardt was in the mix for the Championship’s Golden Boot before injuries knocked him off his stride in early December.
“Hull’s promotion to the Premier League and Gelhardt’s success there would suggest a deal can be done, but Leeds will see who else likes the forward and what they may be willing to pay.
“Hard to see a route back for Gelhardt at Leeds, but certainly someone they can sell for a decent fee.”
Leeds should find a solution soon
Joe Gelhardt has arguably played some of the best football of his career during his time at Hull City over the past 18 months, and he has made little secret of his desire to stay with the Tigers on a permanent basis.
The forward is not considered part of Daniel Farke’s long-term plans at Leeds United, having struggled for regular opportunities before being allowed to leave on loan.
| ⚽ Competition | 👕 Apps | 🎯 Goals | 🅰️ Assists | ⏱️ Mins |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EFL Championship | 39 | 14 | 4 | 2,826′ |
| Championship Play-offs | 3 | 1 | 0 | 113′ |
| FA Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 | 26′ |
| EFL Cup | 1 | 0 | 1 | 76′ |
| Total 2025/26 Campaign | 44 | 15 | 5 | 3,041′ |
Given Gelhardt’s performances, his value to Hull and the financial boost the club will receive following promotion, Leeds are justified in holding out for a sizeable transfer fee.
That said, there is also a strong case for getting a deal completed sooner rather than later. It would provide clarity for all parties and allow Gelhardt to focus fully on preparing for the challenge of Premier League football next season.
Farke can be stubborn, and with Joe, here is another example. He may not be the first choice, but we have a limited budget and need options at AM. His performances at Hull suggest he could be worth another go. We are going at best bank 4-6 million for him, so his sale price isn’t going to make much difference to our summer transfer business. At least take him on pre-season and see how he gets on.
Wish Gelhardt well but he is not Premier League material. Have watched him on tv playing for Hull City, for me doesn’t control the ball quick enough, he isn’t the fastest forward either. Has an eye for goal tho so good luck to Joe, Leeds Utd should sell.
The only manager at Leeds to ever give this lad a real go was Bielsa everyone else has had him out or out on loan. Joe has shown what he is really about and what he can really do at Hull. Stop stifling him he owes this club next to nothing, in the last three years have you heard him utter one word against Leeds….NO he gets on with his his training and goes out on loan.
Joe, get out of Leeds you are being wasted and good luck to you lad you deserve it. I have always thought there was a player in him.
He wants to PLAY so do the one thing he really wants LET HIM GO. Go one Joe you have started to show them what can do, now do some more.