Hull City has finalized the acquisition of centre-back Nobel Mendy from Rayo Vallecano for an undisclosed amount, setting a new club record. The 21-year-old has committed to a five-year deal that includes an option for an additional season.
While financial specifics remain private, the club indicated the price exceeds the amount recently spent on Greek goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis, who joined for an initial fee over £20 million. This deal eclipses the previous long-standing record set in 2016 when the club signed Ryan Mason for £13 million.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Mendy described himself as an athletic, defensive-minded player who excels at building play from the back. The Senegal international, who earned his debut cap against Gambia in March, noted that competing in the Premier League has been a lifelong ambition.
Mendy previously played for Paris FC and Real Betis before his stint at Rayo Vallecano, where he appeared in 28 matches. Notably, he participated in the recent Conference League final against Crystal Palace and reached the same stage the prior year with Real Betis during a loss to Chelsea.
