Hull City receive £2m Middlesbrough bid for key player

Hull City defender Alfie Jones has been the subject of a £2m bid from Championship rivals Middlesbrough, according to Hull Live.

Hull City marginally avoided relegation to League One last season. Former HCAFC now current Sheffield United boss Ruben Selles managed to keep the club in the second tie

However, following a transfer embargo placed on the Tigers by the EFL, losing big players is a big possibility. It is believed that following a review into the club’s finances they are in a much worse state than first thought.

Therefore, Hull City could struggle to push back offers for key players, one of whom is Alfie Jones.

Hull Live report that Rob Edwards, Middlesbrough’s new head coach, is a huge admirer of the central defender and a bid of around £2m has been tabled for him. However, it is also noted that Jones is not pushing for this move with him being vice captain at the MKM Stadium and having registered nearly 200 appearances.

Jones is not desperate for the move to Teeside, but Boro appear intent on testing the HCAFC resolve this summer.

Loyalty to Hull City

Jones began his career at Southampton, coming through their prestigious academy. He had a couple of loans at St. Mirren and Gillingham respectively, giving him his first break into mens football.

Then in September 2020, Hull City took a chance on Jones, signing him for an undisclosed fee. The-27-year-old has shone at the Tigers and become a key player in recent seasons. Jones has registered over 40 game seasons for the past three campaigns, highlighting his importance to the club.

Due to the faith shown in him, it’s unlikely Jones will be desperate for a move away, though the current financial state at HCAFC may take it out of his hands.

Going from bad to worse for Hull City?

It is no secret that this season in the second tier will be difficult for Hull City.

The transfer embargo means HCAFC will struggle to entice top players to East Yorkshire. On top of this, with the club potentially losing key players with some already out the door, it would come as no surprise if plenty of fans are predicting a season finishing in relegation for the Tigers.

New boss Sergej Jakirovic certainly looks to be facing an uphill battle, and it would be very interesting to know if he was aware of the club’s financial situation before choosing to make the move.

West Brom set to sign 23-year-old International defender

West Brom are set to sign Montreal defender George Campbell on a permanent deal, as reported by GiveMeSport.

West Brom are entering a new era as they begin their first transfer window under the leadership of Ryan Mason. The former Spurs coach has taken the reins at The Hawthorns, stepping in as the permanent successor to Tony Mowbray.

The Baggies are aiming to break back into the Championship’s top six after narrowly missing out last season, but Mason will need reinforcements to mount a serious challenge. There have been positive early signs, with Nat Phillips and Aune Heggebo already secured as new arrivals.

Now a third summer signing looks close for West Brom. According to GiveMeSport, WBA are finalising a deal to sign United States defender George Campbell from MLS side Montreal.

Campbell has been of interest to several sides this summer but the Baggies look to have won the race. West Brom’s Championship rivals Bristol City were credited with an interest just last month.

No fee is known as of yet but it is believed that Montreal were looking for around £1m for the defender. Campbell’s contract is up at the end of 2025 but Montreal do have the option to extend his deal for another year, however they will likely want to cash in at some point soon.

Since joining Montréal, he has established himself as a key player, featuring in 71 matches across all competitions. His strong performances were recognised with a debut for the USMNT in January, although he wasn’t included in the following camp due to a recent return from a hamstring injury.

A right-footed defender, Campbell combines impressive pace with a commanding physical presence, attributes that suggest he could thrive in the Championship.

Quality over quantity

West Brom’s early business this window looks promising for the Baggies. While Campbell is only their third signing, he is another quality addition.

The Baggies are adding some top quality depth to their squad. Such depth was key to Burnley and Leeds United last season as they cruised to automatic promotion.

Ultimately promotion is the aim for WBA next season even if it through the play-offs. If they continue with busniess like this, they will be putting themselves in a decent position to do so.