Hull City owner Acun Ilicali has given Hull City fans a rare glimpse into the club’s transfer strategy, listing 11 potential signings with percentage chances of completion. The Tigers are 6th in the Championship with 73 points from 46 games and a goal difference of +4, chasing a top-six finish.
What did Acun Ilicali reveal?
Acun Ilicali took to social media to dismiss a wave of false transfer rumours and share Hull City’s latest transfer situation. He posted a message to the Hull City family, stating the club had been working intensively for two months to build a team fans could be proud of. Ilicali then listed 11 targets with flags and percentages, hinting at how close each deal was to completion.
Among the names, Japan international Hidemasa Morita sits at 99%, suggesting his arrival is almost certain. Portugal’s unknown forward is at 80%, Greece’s Konstantinos Tzolakis at 90%, and Senegal’s unnamed forward at 70%. Hull City are also close to signing Sweden’s Elliot Stroud (90%), France’s Kevin Danois (70%), and Croatia’s Marco Palasic (80%).
Which signings are already confirmed?
Hull City have already completed three signings this summer. Left-back Matt Targett joined on Thursday, following goalkeeper Jack Butland and midfielder Oscar Zambrano. Morita is expected to arrive in Slovenia within 48 hours, while Stroud’s move remains close. The club are also in talks with Auxerre over Danois, a deal that could smash Hull City’s transfer record of £13.2m paid for Ryan Mason in 2016.
Hull Live reported Hull City are close to a deal with Orlando City for Marco Palasic, while Olympiacos goalkeeper Tzolakis remains a target. Meanwhile, reports linking Hull City with Rennes and Switzerland striker Breel Embolo have been dismissed due to wage demands that would break the club’s wage structure.
Why do these targets matter for Hull City?
Hull City sit 22 points behind league leaders Coventry with a recent form run of two wins, a draw, a defeat, and another loss. The Tigers have scored 70 goals but conceded 66, leaving them needing points from their next fixture against Sunderland on January 2, 2027, to keep their top-six push alive.
The targets reflect Hull City’s ambition under Ilicali’s ownership. The 99% rating for Morita shows the club’s confidence in closing that deal quickly, while the inclusion of Tzolakis and Stroud highlights a focus on defensive and wide options. Danois would add attacking firepower if the Auxerre deal completes, potentially breaking the club’s transfer record.
What happens next for Hull City?
Hull City’s next move could come within days as Morita’s arrival edges closer. The club’s social media update signals transparency after weeks of speculation, aiming to cut through false rumours that have surrounded the transfer window. With 46 games played, Hull City need to maintain their push for a playoff spot, and every signing will shape their January 2 clash with Sunderland.
The club’s WhatsApp group and free newsletter service will keep fans updated on every step of the pre-season tour. Hull Live remains the only English media outlet covering Hull City’s every move during the tour, offering real-time updates for supporters eager to track the latest developments.
Hull City are 6th in the Championship with 73 points from 46 games, 22 points behind Coventry, and their next fixture is away to Sunderland on January 2, 2027.
