Hull City are on the verge of completing a deal for seasoned Nigerian international, Semi Ajayi, following his release by West Bromwich Albion at the close of the 2024/25 campaign.
Ajayi, whose contract expired at The Hawthorns, is one of several players, including Grady Diangana and John Swift, who departed the Midlands club this summer.
West Brom endured a challenging campaign, finishing ninth in the Championship, just four points outside the play-off spots.
Their season was further disrupted by managerial changes, most notably the departure of Carlos Corberan on Christmas Eve, as he took up a new challenge at La Liga side Valencia.
According to the Hull Daily Mail, Ajayi is “expected to be another arrival in the near future” for the Tigers, as the club begins a new chapter under recently appointed manager Sergej Jakirovic.
“Defender Semi Ajayi, the 31-year-old Nigerian defender who left West Brom at the end of the season, is expected to be another arrival in the near future,” the publication stated.
The report further notes that the defender and the Championship outfit are close to agreeing personal terms that would see Ajayi move to the MKM Stadium ahead of the 2025/26 season.
“The terms of his free transfer move to the MKM Stadium are thought to be close.”
Capped 43 times by Nigeria, Ajayi saw limited action during his final year at West Brom and is now eyeing a fresh start.
Hull City, having narrowly avoided relegation last season, are seeking to reinforce their backline as they aim for more stability under Jakirovic, who joined from Turkish side Kayserispor.
The experienced defender is expected to provide depth and competition in central defence, alongside Sean McLoughlin, Alfie Jones, John Egan, and Charlie Hughes.
“Ajayi would arrive with the aim of providing competition for Sean McLoughlin, Alfie Jones, John Egan and Charlie Hughes as the Tigers’ four frontline central defenders, and is viewed as a solid signing on a free transfer,” Hull Daily Mail added in another report.
Ajayi began his football journey at Arsenal’s youth academy before sealing a €2 million move to West Brom from Rotherham United in July 2019.
During his six-year spell at The Hawthorns, he featured in 170 league matches, including 33 Premier League appearances during the 2020/21 season.
