Hull City could face points deduction in Premier League

Except Ilicali appears to have played his hand a little early, surrendering some of his bargaining power by openly admitting a clock is ticking.

Ilicali got Hull promoted against the odds, with the club restricted to loans and free agents in 2025-26 as punishment for making late transfer payments to other clubs.

Only the profit from any player sale would count towards the £6m overspend.

Some of their key players – including Joe Gelhardt, Amir Hadziahmetovic, John Lundstram and Lewis Koumas – were only on loan.

The club would not want to lose the players that they do own who earned them promotion.

That includes Regan Slater, the 26-year-old midfielder who was named players’ and supporters’ player of the year.

Or Charlie Hughes, the 22-year-old centre-back who has won back-to-back young player of the year awards.

Hull have previously rejected offers for Hughes and goalkeeper Ivor Pandur, who is part of the Croatia squad at the World Cup.

With several Championship clubs interested in forward Kyle Joseph, a deal for the 24-year-old could cover much of the £6m.

The Tigers are also willing to invite offers for David Akintola, Abu Kamara and Kasey Palmer, with the latter two ending the season on loan at Getafe and Luton Town.

Ilicali is confident the money can be raised by selling players the club will not need in the Premier League.

Then next month they can turn to squad building.