Union Berlin confirm record-breaking Ilyas Ansah sale to Hull City

1. FC Union Berlin have confirmed that Ilyas Ansah has left the club to join Hull City on a permanent basis.

Kicker reported last week that the two clubs had agreed a deal worth €21 million, while Sky Germany has put the total package at €24 million.

Either way, the transfer makes Ansah Union’s new record sale, surpassing Taiwo Awoniyi, who joined Nottingham Forest for €20 million in 2022.

“I suppose every little boy dreams of one day playing professionally in the Premier League,” said Ansah, explaining his move to the Preimer League club.

“That was certainly the case for me, so I’m all the happier that I now have the chance to fulfil that dream. I’d like to thank Union, the club officials and, above all, the fans for an incredible year in which more has probably happened than at other clubs in five.”

Union Berlin director of men’s professional football Horst Heldt commented:

“We are losing a young, talented player in Ilyas, who took a significant step forward in his development in the Bundesliga last season and demonstrated his qualities at the highest level.

“The interest from England and the offer from Hull City were very attractive both for the player and for us as a club. Following constructive discussions with all parties involved, we have therefore jointly decided to honour his wish to move to the Premier League.

"We would like to thank Ilyas for his commitment and the performances he delivered whilst wearing the shirt of 1. FC Union Berlin, and we wish him all the best for the future – both on and off the pitch – and every success in this new chapter of his career in England.”

Ansah spent just one season at Union Berlin after joining the club from SC Paderborn in the summer of 2025.

For Hull City fans looking to get to know Ansah better, this article offers a detailed insight into his strengths and weaknesses.