Hull City announced the signing of 21-year-old Senegal defender Nobel Mendy from Rayo Vallecano on August 12, 2026, on a five-year contract with an option for an additional year [1, 2]. The transfer fee was not officially disclosed, but British media reported it around 25 million euros (approximately 28.82 million USD), surpassing Hull City's previous club record fee of 20 million pounds plus add-ons paid earlier in August for goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis [1, 2].
Mendy, a left-footed centre-back, made 28 appearances and scored two goals during his sole season at Rayo Vallecano [1, 3, 2]. Before joining Rayo Vallecano, he was with Real Betis, where he made six senior appearances and helped the club reach the 2025 UEFA Conference League final [1, 2]. He started his career at Paris FC [3]. Remarkably, Mendy reached the Conference League final twice in 2025, first with Real Betis (losing to Chelsea) and then with Rayo Vallecano (losing to Crystal Palace) [3].
Mendy debuted for the Senegal national team in March 2026, starting in a 3-1 friendly victory over Gambia [1, 3, 2]. Reflecting on his move, Mendy said, "I have wanted to play in the Premier League since I was little, so it's a great challenge to face and I am ready for it" [1]. He added he is "very happy to be here and very proud," describing himself as "a very athletic player, and I am a defender at heart" who enjoys "coming out from the back cleanly and aggressively when needed" [3].
Hull City's previous transfer record was set earlier in August with the signing of Greek goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis from Olympiacos for 20 million pounds plus add-ons [1, 3, 2]. Mendy's signing marks a significant investment as Hull prepares for the Premier League season.
Mendy's contract runs for five years, with an option for a further year [1, 3, 2]. The club and player now prepare for his integration ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
