Championship clubs Stoke City and Derby County, and Wrexham, are reportedly in the race to sign Hull City’s experienced defender John Egan, according to Pete O'Rooke from Football Insider.
The 32-year-old Republic of Ireland international, who signed an 18-month deal with Hull City in January, has caught the attention of these clubs due to his proven track record and defensive nous.
Egan, who made 11 appearances for Hull in the 2024-25 Championship season, brings a wealth of experience from his time at Sheffield United, where he played a pivotal role in their promotions and Premier League campaigns. His leadership, aerial prowess, and composure make him an attractive target for clubs looking to strengthen their backlines.
Stoke City, Derby County and Wrexham are among several Championship clubs eyeing moves for Hull City defender John Egan. #hcafc #SCFC #dcfc #WxmAFC pic.twitter.com/GG5K6XQ2fF
— Pete O'Rourke (@SportsPeteO) July 14, 2025
Stoke City’s Push for Stability
Stoke City, currently managed by Mark Robins, are keen to add Egan’s experience to their squad as they aim to climb the Championship table. Robins, appointed on January 1, 2025, on a three-and-a-half-year contract, has been tasked with revitalizing the Potters after a challenging season that saw predecessors Steven Schumacher and Narcís Pèlach sacked. With Stoke securing Championship safety on the final day of the 2024-25 season with a goalless draw against Derby, Robins is now focused on building a squad capable of challenging for promotion. Egan’s signing could provide the defensive solidity needed to support this ambition.
Derby County’s Defensive Reinforcement
Derby County, under the management of John Eustace, are also interested in Egan as they look to solidify their squad following their return to the Championship. Eustace, appointed in February 2025, guided the Rams to safety with a goalless draw against Stoke on the final day of the 2024-25 season. With Derby preparing for a busy summer transfer window, Eustace sees Egan as a potential cornerstone to strengthen their defense and help establish the club as a competitive force in the Championship.
Wrexham’s Ambitious Move
Wrexham, managed by Phil Parkinson, are making headlines with their interest in Egan. The Welsh club, backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, earned promotion to the Championship and are now pushing for further success. Signing a player of Egan’s caliber would be a bold statement of intent, signalling Wrexham’s ambition for experience. Parkinson’s side is looking to capitalize on Egan’s experience to bolster their defensive unit as they navigate the challenges of the Championship.
Egan’s Future at Hull City
Egan’s contract with Hull City runs until the summer of 2026, but with interest from multiple clubs, the Tigers face a decision on whether to retain the veteran defender or consider offers. Hull, under their own managerial and squad rebuild, may weigh the benefits of keeping Egan’s experience against potential transfer interest.
The competition for John Egan underscores the value of experienced defenders in the EFL, where his signing could significantly impact any of these clubs’ campaigns. As the transfer window approaches, fans will be eager to see where the former Sheffield United star lands next.
