Free agent market could be lucrative

CITY MAY FIND GREAT OPTIONS

- BY PETE SMITH & DOM HOWSON

The summer transfer window opened yesterday as Hull City edge closer to appointing a new manager.

Reports in Turkey claim Kayserispor boss Sergej Jakirovic has “agreed in principle” to take over the reins from Ruben Selles.

Jakirovic was expected to take charge of Kayserispor for the final time yesterday when they visit third-placed Samsunspor in what is their last match of the season.

Expect there to be plenty of incomings and outgoings at the MKM as the Tigers step up their preparations for the 2025-26 season.

Sheffield United have joined the ranks of clubs announcing their list of released and retained players following their play-off final defeat, making more free agents available for summer transfers.

The Blades have also announced the return of several loan recruits to their parent clubs, a move that could pique the interest of teams like Birmingham City as they begin their rebuilding efforts.

Players including Alfie Gilchrist, Rob Holding, Harry Soutter, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Harry Clarke, Ben Brereton Diaz and Hamza Choudhury are all heading back home after United's unsuccessful play-off attempt, with their collective futures uncertain.

Championship clubs had until May 17 to inform the EFL about the future of players whose contracts are due to expire at the end of June. Clubs involved in the play-offs were given an extension until four days after their season ended.

Coventry City and fellow play-off semi-finalists Bristol City have already disclosed their lists, while Sheffield United confirmed on Wednesday they are in talks with striker Rhian Brewster and that Jack Robinson has triggered an automatic one-year extension by playing a certain number of matches.

Robinson made 34 league starts in the 2024-25 season, while Brewster featured in 18, reports Birmingham Live.