Hull City's head of recruitment seals Championship transfer to Tigers' rivals

Hull City's head of recruitment Lee Darnbrough has left the club after seven years to join Championship rivals Stoke City with immediate effect, replacing Jared Dublin at the bet365 Stadium.

Darnbrough arrived from Norwich City in 2017 and oversaw a significant number of arrivals at the MKM Stadium under the previous ownership, helping City win promotion and the League One title in 2021 before aiding Acun Ilicali and Tan Kesler settling into life at the club following their takeover in January 2022.

City's head of recruitment played a key role in bringing players like Regan Slater, Greg Docherty, Richie Smallwood, Mallik Wilks and Alfie Jones, all of whom helped the Tigers make an instant return to the Championship whilst also operating under a transfer embargo prior to Ilicali's takeover.

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“We’re thrilled to have Lee on board. Bringing over 20 years of experience in the football industry and being well versed in Championship football, Lee will be able to hit the ground running at Stoke City as we prepare for the upcoming summer transfer window and beyond," the Potters' sporting director Jon Walters said with Darnbrough working alongside head coach Steven Schumacher plus recruitment analysts Scott Coomber and Mama Sidibe.

“His extensive network and knowledge of both the domestic and international markets will make him a valuable asset as we build our squad for the future.”

It's understood the existing recruitment team at the MKM Stadium will remain in place with City's work ongoing behind the scenes to add to their squad ahead of the new season which sees Tim Walter take charge following Liam Rosenior's departure.