Transfer expectation revealed on Hull City star amid Middlesbrough interest | OneFootball

Hull City centre-back Jacob Greaves is now “expected” to leave his current side this month after rejecting multiple contract offers, as per a report from the Northern Echo.

The 21-year-old hasn’t been short of interest from elsewhere and that comes as no surprise with the young defender adapting to the Championship seamlessly – and Norwich City’s interest in him dates back to last year.

It’s currently unclear whether they are still interested in recruiting him – but Middlesbrough are definitely still in the race to secure his services with Chris Wilder having the Tigers’ central defender as his number one target in this area.

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Kamil Grosicki

Abroad Domestic

Boro are currently on the prowl for a left-footed option in this department and Greaves fits that profile, though they may face competition from Watford if the Hornets decide to revive their interest in the 21-year-old.

Both teams have been boosted by the defender’s wish not to extend his stay, though Hull do have some power at the negotiating table with the club able to trigger a 12-month extension on his deal that runs out next year.

Shota Arveladze’s side have already lost one key asset in Keane Lewis-Potter to Brentford this summer – but it looks as though owner Acun Ilicali may be willing to sanction another high-profile sale with Greaves failing to commit his future to his current side.

The Verdict:

This is a blow for the East Yorkshire side because they would have wanted to retain the central defender beyond the summer to provide a bit of stability following the departure of Lewis-Potter.

The arrival of several new faces also means it’s important to have first-teamers from last season like Greaves remain a key part of their spine, giving them the best chance of thriving during the early stages of this season.

At this stage, it seems like the player should be pushing for a move to the top flight if he is to move on because although Boro are likely to be in contention for promotion this season, there are no guarantees they will secure their top-tier return.

Regardless of whether he signs a new deal or not, he should be looking to remain at the MKM Stadium if top-flight interest doesn’t come his way, unless officials at the club are actively trying to force him out.

He will be in the top tier sooner rather than later if he can continue to develop – and he may benefit from continuing to grow in a familiar location – though Boro wouldn’t be the worst destination to end up at if he was to move on.