Daniel Farke faces several major decisions this summer, and one Leeds United player appears increasingly likely to leave Elland Road before the start of the new campaign.
Following an encouraging return to the Premier League that ended with a respectable 14th-place finish, Leeds have turned their attention to the transfer market as they look to strengthen the squad ahead of next season.
The club are keen to add greater quality, depth, and attacking threat in key areas. However, recruitment is only one part of their summer strategy. Leeds also recognise the need to streamline and reshape the squad, making player departures just as important as new arrivals.
A number of first-team players have already been linked with moves away from Elland Road, including Pascal Struijk, Wilfried Gnonto, and Lucas Perri, as preparations for the upcoming season gather pace.
Another player expected to depart is Joe Gelhardt, although Leeds are prepared to be patient before sanctioning his exit.
Leeds United willing to wait before making Joe Gelhardt decision
Joe Gelhardt played a key role in Hull City’s promotion-winning campaign, and the Tigers have made no secret of their desire to secure his services on a permanent deal.
The Leeds forward is also understood to be eager to return to the MKM Stadium, where he enjoyed a productive spell and the opportunity to play Premier League football with Hull next season. Hull had hoped to reach an agreement quickly, but Leeds are not rushing into a decision.
According to The Athletic’s Beren Cross, the Whites intend to assess the market before committing to any sale. The club want to gauge the level of interest in Gelhardt and determine what kind of transfer fee interested clubs may be willing to offer.
While his departure appears inevitable, any immediate move to Hull has been temporarily delayed.
Cross explained: “Exactly the kind of loan spell he would have hoped for at Hull City. Gelhardt was in the mix for the Championship Golden Boot before injuries disrupted his momentum in early December.
“Hull’s promotion to the Premier League and Gelhardt’s success there suggest a deal is certainly possible, but Leeds will want to see which other clubs are interested and how much they are prepared to pay.
“It’s difficult to see a pathway back into the Leeds squad for Gelhardt, but he remains a player the club can generate a healthy transfer fee from.”
Leeds should seek a swift resolution
Gelhardt has arguably produced some of the best football of his career during his time at Hull City over the last 18 months and has openly expressed his desire to remain with the club on a permanent basis.
Having struggled for consistent opportunities at Leeds before heading out on loan, the striker is not viewed as part of Daniel Farke’s long-term plans.
Considering Gelhardt’s impressive performances, his importance to Hull, and the additional financial resources available following promotion, Leeds are fully justified in seeking the best possible transfer fee.
Nevertheless, there is also a strong argument for concluding a deal sooner rather than later. A quick resolution would provide certainty for all parties involved and allow Gelhardt to focus entirely on preparing for the challenges of Premier League football next season.
