Leeds United’s Joe Gelhardt makes transfer ‘interest’ admission after eye-catching Hull City form

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On-loan Leeds United forward Joe Gelhardt has opened up on transfer interest and how he feels about his spell at Hull City after catching the eye in the Championship.

Joe Gelhardt was once tipped for greatness at Leeds, making an immediate impact in the Premier League as a talented youngster.

However, Gelhardt found his opportunities for first-team football limited under Daniel Farke and was allowed to leave the club on loan.

Now, Gelhardt is beginning to live up to the talent that saw him compared to Wayne Rooney early in his career in the Wigan academy.

With Leeds reluctant to recall Gelhardt in January, the on-loan forward has revealed how he feels about his time at Hull.

Joe Gelhardt shares his feelings over Hull City stay

Speaking to BBC Sport, Gelhardt opened up about his feelings towards Hull City, having enjoyed so much success at the club in his current loan spell.

According to Gelhardt, he is happy to be with the Tigers, and he will continue giving his all for the duration of his loan spell.

“It’s clear to see there was genuine interest, but it was killed quite quickly,” Gelhardt said.

Joe Gelhardt for Hull City in the Championship this season:

• Games: 15
• Goals: 7
• Assists: 2

“Me and the manager both said, I’m happy where I am, and I’m ready to play for Hull for however long that is and put the Hull shirt on and crack on.

“I’ve done that and I’m still continuing to do that. I’m happy here. I love playing for the club.”

• READ MORE: Leeds United warned not to fall into Daniel Farke trap in Premier League survival fight

Leeds United forward needs a full season in the Championship to develop

While fans may be eager to see the in-form Gelhardt return to Elland Road, in truth, staying at Hull for the rest of the season is the right decision for his development.

According to TransferMarkt, Gelhardt had played 104 league appearances before his current loan spell with Hull, scoring just 11 goals in the process.

As a result, his seven goals this season represent a career-best return for Gelhardt, who had never scored more than five goals in a season before.

Whether Leeds elect to bring him back to Elland Road at the end of his loan, or allow him to leave permanently, playing out a full Championship season is an important next step in Gelhardt’s development.