Everton transfer target makes 'surprise appearance' and spotted in hotel as saga could take twist

Jaden Philogene has made a surprise decision to join Hull City’s overseas pre-season trip.

The winger is in hot demand in the summer transfer window after a fine 2023-24 campaign. He recorded 12 goals and six assists in 33 appearances as the Tigers narrowly missed out on the Championship play-offs.

Everton, Aston Villa and Ipswich Town have all reportedly had bids of £18 million accepted for Philogene. As a result, the 22-year-old did not originally jet out with Hull’s squad to Turkey yesterday. Team-mate Jacob Greaves also was not present as he closes in on a move to Ipswich.

But according to BBC Radio Humberside reporter Mike White, who is covering the Tigers on the outskirts of Istanbul, said that Philogene has now linked up with the squad.

He posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Surprise appearance here in Turkey at @HullCity’s training camp in Riva as a certain Jaden Philogene has just walked & greeted us in the lobby.”

Hull owner Acun Ilacli claimed earlier this week that Premier League new-boys Ipswich were the favourites to sign Philogene. The Hull Daily Mail also reports that the Tractor Boys remain at the front of the queue to sign the England youth international.

However, The Times reported that Everton believe that Philogene wants to join the club. The forward’s agent Berto Camach posted images of himself at the Toffees’ Finch Farm training complex earlier this week.