(Credit: Imago)

Evan Shaw

Fri 3 April 2026 15:30, UK

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Joe Gelhardt’s impressive performances in his loan spell with Hull City could yet see him become part of Leeds United’s first-team squad next season.

The Whites almost decided to sell the young striker last summer, only to ultimately reach the conclusion that another loan spell was the best move for his development.

The 23-year-old has since notched 13 goals and four assists from just 32 games in the Championship so far this term, a return that has quickly seen his loan club and their fans fall in love with him.

Hull haven’t hidden their desire to sign the forward permanently at all in recent months, and Gelhardt himself has now suggested that he is “loving” his time with the Tigers and would be happy to stay permanently, according to Leeds Live.

Leeds’ transfer plans are set to see them try to bolster their attacking options once again this summer, but there could yet be a surprise role for Gelhardt, after the way that he has performed in 2025-26.

Joe Gelhardt could form part of Leeds’ striker solution for 2026-27

Football Insider recently revealed that Leeds intend to sign a new striker this summer to provide further goalscoring cover for Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

However, the uncertainty surrounding Joel Piroe’s future could potentially see the door left open for two forward additions to this year’s squad, and Gelhardt is staking a serious case for him to be one of them.

Despite his admission regarding his future, his parent club are pleased with his development, and while it is likelier that they will sell him, it is clear that it isn’t ruled out that he could play a role for them next term.

Gelhardt has enjoyed the kind of campaign that will make people sit up and take notice, and he is currently the only first-team striker on Leeds’ books who is outperforming his xG.

He is making the most of the chances that have come his way, and he also ranks comparatively to both Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha when it comes to goals per 90 and shots on target per 90.

That comes with the obvious caveat of him playing in the division below at the moment, but this is perhaps the first time that he has truly looked ready for the Premier League.

It is highly unlikely that Daniel Farke and Co. shelve the plans for a new frontman, but Gelhardt could yet force his way back into the fold if he continues to impress and enjoys a strong pre-season.

Leeds fans ready to welcome Gelhardt back

Leeds fans have kept track of Gelhardt’s progress during his time at the MKM Stadium, and they have been pleased with what they have seen from him so far.

Several even took to social media after he netted a screamer against Wrexham last month to suggest that he should be recalled to Elland Road, with many outlining their belief that he is better than Brenden Aaronson.

Supporters are always keen to see academy graduates com through the ranks and become influential figures at senior level, and many at Elland Road still believe that there is hope of Gelhardt ultimately reaching his potential.

However, they may have to prepare themselves for disappointment this summer, as it remains to be seen whether Hull will get their way in regard to his future.