The transfers Hull City must target this window to strengthen their promotion bid

With the January transfer window now in full swing, Hull City are approaching a crucial few weeks that could shape the rest of their season. While the Tigers remain firmly in the hunt for promotion, their ability to strengthen the squad is severely restricted by ongoing EFL regulations.

Hull are currently unable to pay transfer or loan fees, forcing the club to operate under strict conditions that require any incoming player to be balanced by an outgoing one. It is a difficult position to be in, but one the club has already shown it can navigate successfully.

That approach paid dividends in the summer and has played a major role in Hull’s strong campaign under head coach Sergej Jakirović, who has guided the side into genuine contention for a Premier League return.

Injuries remain Hull’s biggest concern

If there has been one recurring problem this season, it has been the relentless injury list. Jakirović has yet to field his strongest XI at any point, and that situation is unlikely to improve in the short term. Winger Mo Belloumi is set to miss at least the next couple of months, further limiting attacking options.

With squad depth already stretched, Hull’s transfer priorities must be precise rather than expansive.

Reinforcing the midfield

Midfield is the area most in need of attention. Jakirović has consistently expressed dissatisfaction with how games are being controlled centrally, and the engine room has seen more rotation than any other part of the team.

John Lundstram’s arrival has yet to pay off, largely due to injury issues that have ruled him out of 16 matches. Darko Gyabi and Amir Hadžiahmetović have each shown promise in spells but neither has truly nailed down a regular role.

Regan Slater has become the constant presence in midfield, with Matt Crooks also filling in when required. However, Hull are lacking energy, athleticism and balance in central areas, particularly against stronger opponents.

The club are actively exploring options to add mobility and intensity to midfield, ideally someone capable of influencing games both defensively and in possession. There are a couple of targets being monitored, and Hull hope to secure at least one deal before the window closes.

Defensive stability largely in place

At the back, there is no intention to part ways with Charlie Hughes, and no new bids have been received for the highly-rated defender. Semi Ajayi’s return from the Africa Cup of Nations later this month will provide a significant boost.

That said, his availability could limit opportunities for John Egan, despite the defender recently agreeing to a contract extension. Whether Egan is satisfied with a reduced role remains unclear, and if any defensive exits do occur, Hull already have contingency plans in place.

Adding creativity in attack

Further forward, Hull are still keen on adding an attacking midfielder, with Kieran Dowell remaining a leading target. The Rangers playmaker is not central to Danny Röhl’s plans and is expected to be allowed to leave.

Although Dowell has recently returned from injury and featured on the bench, Hull remain confident a deal can be agreed at some stage. Bringing in a player of his profile would inject creativity and goal threat between the lines.

Such a move could also raise questions about Kasey Palmer’s long-term role. The Jamaican international has recently returned from injury and shown flashes of quality, but he attracted interest during the summer and remains a potential departure if space needs to be created.

Goalkeeping competition

Hull are also closing in on the signing of goalkeeper Seny Dieng, who would arrive to provide competition for Ivor Pandur. While there are no plans to sell the Croatian stopper, the club are keen to strengthen the goalkeeping department and ensure cover is in place if circumstances change.

The biggest obstacle: moving players on

The major challenge remains compliance with the EFL’s agreed business plan. Hull can only add players if others leave, and that reality will dictate the pace of their business.

Brandon Williams and David Akintola are currently the most likely departures, while uncertainty continues to surround Cody Drameh. Additional exits may be required if Hull are to complete all their desired moves.

Minimal changes, maximum impact

There will be no major overhaul of the squad, nor is one required. With Joe Gelhardt and Eliot Matazo nearing returns from injury, Hull already have reinforcements on the way.

In truth, the Tigers only need three additions: a goalkeeper, a midfielder and one attacking player. The aim is not to transform the team, but to add marginal gains — a few extra goals, more control in midfield and stronger competition for places.

Given the constraints, it will not be easy. But Hull have already shown they can operate effectively under pressure. If they get their business right once again, their promotion push could remain firmly on track.