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‘Very exciting times’ – Midfielder delighted with life after leaving Leeds United

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Leeds bid farewell to many players over the summer.

Patrick Bamford departed after falling out with Daniel Farke – while Junior Firpo returned to Real Betis on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract.

Leeds then sanctioned a free transfer themselves when agreeing to let Darko Gyabi move to Hull – 12 months ahead of his terms actually expiring – in exchange for a hefty 50% cut of any future sale.

The England U21 international has now spoken to RG about life after Elland Road – admitting he is delighted to be with the Tigers.

Darko Gyabi enjoying his time at Hull City after Leeds United granted early exit

Leeds needed to let the 21-year-old join Hull on a free transfer due to the fact the Championship side are under a transfer embargo, and he sounds grateful to the 49ers for doing so.

Which player would you be happy for Leeds to sell in January to fund their transfer business? Let us know in the comments… 🤔💰

The likes of Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto are struggling to force their way into Farke's plans.

Joel Piroe in action for Leeds United
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images

Gyabi said: “It was good being at Leeds, I really enjoyed my time there, but when I spoke to Hull, the idea behind the club and how they saw me fitted what I wanted from the next chapter of my football career, so it was just based off that and also being able to get a fresh start and fight for something with a different team and push forward.

“I’ve enjoyed my time at Hull so far, and I think the team and the players and the staff members are very helpful. It feels like I’ve been here for longer than I have, I’ve adapted, and I’m just continuing to learn from all of those guys. It’s very exciting times, and I just want to continue to improve and work and learn from the staff members and everybody in that club as much as possible.”

Darko Gyabi in action for England's U20 side.
Photo by Fran Santiago – The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Gyabi has only made three starts in the Championship this season – along with 11 appearances from the bench – but has contributed one goal to help Hull sit 12th, only three points off the top six.

Joe Gelhardt is also impressing at Hull – scoring eight goals in his last ten Championship appearances.

Leeds United deserve credit for handling of Darko Gyabi situation

It would have been easy for Leeds to deny Gyabi his move considering the fact Hull are under a transfer embargo, and there was no immediate financial gain for the Whites.

Joe Gelhardt makes telling admission after fine start to life at Hull City😬

“I think it’s just happiness. I wanted to come back here since (the end of) last season… I’m just very happy at the minute.”

Joe Gelhardt pre-Stoke City win

However, those at Elland Road recognised that a young player needed to embark on a new chapter after two separate loan spells to Plymouth, so they put finances aside for now to grant him that wish.

Hopefully, Gyabi can fulfil his vast potential with Hull, and ensure Leeds make a tidy return on that 50% sell-on clause.