Reports from South America have emerged suggesting Hull City are close to signing Peruvian midfielder Yuriel Celi. 

Peruvian media outlet Libero have reported that Hull are lining up an offer for attacker Celi from Liga 1 side Mannucci.

Celi, an attacking midfielder, has already represented Peru at senior level and has just joined Universitario de deportes on loan with the report suggesting Hull will sign the youngster, and allow him to return for the rest of the season.

Post-Brexit work-permit regulations have made it easier for South American players to join English clubs with the likes of Brighton proving that having signed a number of youngsters from the continent in recent years.

Norwich have also benefitted with Hull looking like the next side to benefit should they get the deal for Celi over the line.

Brazilian giants Sao Paulo were reportedly interested in the midfielder, with Sheffield United also coming close to landing the Peruvian last year according to  Yorkshire Live.

If the reports of a deal being in place between Hull and Mannucci are true, it means a move to the MKM Stadium is up to Celi himself whether he wishes to move abroad.

With Celi's contract set to expire at the end of 2023, it is unlikely that Acun Ilicali will have to break the bank to lure the youngster to the MKM Stadium as he looks to sign youngsters for the future at Hull.

 

 

The Verdict

Given the success of Brighton and to some extent Norwich with tapping into the South American market, this could be an exctiting addition for The Tigers.

The 20-year-old has pedigree, making 46 appearances for Academica Cantolao, as well as contributing to eight goals and four assists prior to his move to Manucci. With that in mind, mixed with the potential low cost of the deal, it's a low-risk signing for the Tigers.

There's no guarantee that Celi will be a success at Hull should he sign, but it is reassuring knowing that Hull are looking outside of Ilicali's list of contacts when it comes to adding to their ranks which will only stand them in good stead in the future.