Hull City are actively pursuing two significant summer transfers, with talks underway for Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey and a deal nearing completion for ex-Middlesbrough defender Matt Targett. The Championship club is making late moves to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.
Who are the targets?
Hull City are in discussions with Aston Villa over a potential move for Jamaica international Leon Bailey. The 28-year-old winger, who joined Villa from Bayer Leverkusen for £25m in 2021, has made 163 appearances for the Premier League side, scoring 23 goals and providing 25 assists. Bailey spent last season on loan at Roma before being recalled in January, and Villa are reportedly keen on a permanent exit for the player.
Meanwhile, Hull are on the verge of signing 30-year-old left-back Matt Targett after his release from Newcastle United. Targett spent the 2025/26 season on loan at Middlesbrough, where he featured in the Championship play-off final against Hull City. BBC Radio Humberside reports that a two-year deal at the MKM Stadium is imminent, with Targett expected to join the Tigers for their pre-season training camp in Slovenia.
Why these signings matter
Both players bring valuable Premier League experience to Hull City's squad. Bailey, a right-sided winger, would add creativity and attacking threat to Sergej Jakirovic's side, while Targett's defensive solidity and leadership could prove crucial in the Championship. The signings also demonstrate Hull's ambition to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
What's next for Hull City?
With the Premier League season approaching, Hull City are stepping up their transfer activity. The club has already secured the signing of goalkeeper Jack Butland from Rangers, and the additions of Bailey and Targett would further enhance their squad. Fans will be eager to see how these new signings integrate into the team during their pre-season preparations in Slovenia.
