Hull City‘s pursuit of Tim Iroegbunam has already twisted repeatedly this summer.
The Tigers first identified the Everton midfielder some time ago as they began preparing for life back in the Premier League.
Sergej Jakirović had guided Hull through the Championship play-offs, with a victory over Middlesbrough at Wembley ending the club’s nine-year absence from the top flight.
That promotion changed the level of player Hull could target, and Iroegbunam emerged as one of their most ambitious options.
Everton were reportedly looking for around £20 million, and that would represent a seismic investment for Hull, but there were several reasons for their interest.
Iroegbunam is only 23, already knows the Premier League and can operate as either a central or defensive midfielder. He is powerful in duels, carries the ball and can cover ground when possession turns over.
|
Iroegbunam vs Hull City midfielders — 2025/2026 |
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Player |
Club |
Primary role |
League apps |
Goals |
Minutes |
Minutes per app |
|
Regan Slater |
Hull City |
Defensive midfield |
42 |
2 |
3,160 |
75 |
|
Amir Hadžiahmetović |
Hull City |
Defensive midfield |
37 |
0 |
2,127 |
57 |
|
Matt Crooks |
Hull City |
Central midfield |
31 |
4 |
2,509 |
81 |
|
John Lundstram |
Hull City |
Defensive midfield |
29 |
1 |
1,538 |
53 |
|
Tim Iroegbunam |
Everton |
Central midfield |
29 |
0 |
1,486 |
51 |
|
Darko Gyabi |
Hull City |
Central midfield |
20 |
2 |
689 |
34 |
|
Toby Collyer |
Hull City |
Defensive midfield |
5 |
0 |
104 |
21 |
|
Eliot Matazo |
Hull City |
Central midfield |
1 |
0 |
11 |
11 |
Those qualities could be vital for a promoted side likely to spend long periods without the ball.
He also has Championship experience after making 32 league appearances during a loan spell with QPR in 2022/23. Everton signed him from Aston Villa for a reported £9 million in 2024.
His first season on Merseyside was disrupted by a serious ankle injury, but he became more involved under David Moyes last term.
Iroegbunam made 31 appearances in all competitions, including 29 in the Premier League, and while he was not always a guaranteed starter, his energy and physical presence made him a useful member of Everton’s midfield.
His contract is due to expire next summer, giving Everton a decision to make. They rejected an approach from Lazio in January but could now risk losing negotiating power if he enters the final months of his deal.
Hull appeared to be in a strong position earlier this summer. However, the proposed move suddenly stalled.
BBC Radio Humberside sports editor Mike White previously reported that Hull had been close to an agreement before differing opinions inside the club brought the process to a halt.
It was unclear whether the concern centred on Everton’s valuation or the player’s suitability, but the pursuit has now become even more complicated.
Iroegbunam has picked up an injury which could keep him out for the opening weeks of the Premier League season.
For a club needing players who can make an immediate impact, that has caused hesitation among members of Hull’s recruitment department.
Jakirović, though, has not changed his mind.
Tim Iroegbunam to Hull still on despite injury after Jakirovic wish
White now reports that the Hull head coach remains keen to sign Iroegbunam despite the injury and still wants the club to complete a deal.
That creates an intriguing decision for the Tigers.
Signing an injured player for a sizeable fee would carry risk, especially with Hull facing Man United in their opening fixture.
A short absence should not necessarily destroy a move designed to strengthen the squad for several seasons.
Iroegbunam offers age, athleticism and top flight experience. The bigger question is whether Jakirović can convince Hull’s recruitment team that those long-term benefits outweigh the immediate concern.
In any case, the move is still very much alive as things stand.
