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Hull City supporters are bracing themselves for another summer rebuild at the MKM Stadium.
After narrowly avoiding relegation on the final day against Portsmouth, Hull City sacked Ruben Selles weeks later.
It was seen as a controversial decision from most of the fanbase, who felt the Spaniard deserved time to implement his methods and sign the players he wanted in the summer transfer window.
But now, the Tigers are about to appoint their fifth permanent manager of the Acun Ilicali era, as Hull City are closing in on Sergej Jakirovic.
Jakirovic, who once tasted the biggest defeat in Champions League history, currently manages Kayserispor and could bring one player with him from Turkey.
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Billy Sharp’s praise for Hull City target John Lundstram
After weeks searching for a new manager, Hull have agreed in principle to hire Jakirovic, and he’s set to say goodbye to Kayserispor in their final match of the season this Sunday.
According to Karandeniz Gazete, City are already plotting their first move of the summer transfer window, with Ilicali reportedly keen on adding John Lundstram to his midfield ranks.
Lundstram currently plays for Trabzonspor, but the report claims he won’t be a part of their plans next season and they are considering terminating his contract.
The industrious English midfielder has amassed 32 appearances for the Turkish side since leaving Rangers last summer, with Lundstram readily known for his time at Sheffield United.
The 31-year-old spent four years at Bramall Lane from 2017 to 2021 and many of his 120 appearances were under Chris Wilder.
During the 2019/20 campaign, Sheffield United recorded a ninth-place finish in the Premier League, with legendary EFL striker Billy Sharp praising the midfielder as a ‘real menace’.
Speaking in March 2020, he said: “He’s got all the attributes. He runs so much in a game, he provides assists and goals. He’s a real menace to other teams and a great player to have.
“He gives us a lot of energy and he got an assist as well, which is important.”
Hull City’s midfield overhaul
Hull need to sign proven Championship players this summer. The ‘phenomenal’ Lundstram ticks that box, and he’s also a physically imposing and energetic presence in the middle of the park.
The Tigers often lost the midfield battle last term, but the size and stature of Lundstram would give them a better chance of controlling games.
With Steven Alzate attracting interest from Spain and Eliot Matazo recovering from an ACL injury, City need extra bodies competing for a spot in central midfield, with the former Blades star capable of playing in an advanced role behind the striker.
It seems a no-brainer for Hull to sign him, especially if he’s available on a free transfer, as it would kick-start what the fans hope will be a successful summer.