Source: Team_Talk
Tigers boss seeking new Hunt deal
The Republic of Ireland winger, who joined the Tigers on a four-year deal last summer, has been the subject of three bids from Molineux this month.[LNB]Despite their well-documented financial difficulties, Hull have rejected each offer - the latest of £4million, according to Brown - but their resolve could be tested again before Monday's transfer deadline.[LNB]Brown, who must coincidentally prepare his side to face Wolves this weekend, has spoken to the 29-year-old about the situation and the subject of new terms was raised.[LNB]Brown said: "He's a good player and has played his part so far this season.[LNB]"Yesterday there was firm interest from Wolves.[LNB]"People are saying the bids will test us but I am hoping Stephen Hunt will test Wolves the right way on Saturday, playing for Hull City.[LNB]"Hopefully that will continue from now until the end of the season.[LNB]"I spoke to Stephen this morning and began preliminary talks with regards to a new contract.[LNB]"That's how keen we are on keeping Stephen at this football club."[LNB]Hunt has been one of Hull's most influential players since arriving from Reading for an undisclosed fee, scoring five goals so far this season.[LNB]Losing him would be a major blow in the battle to survive in the Barclays Premier League but there are fears another improved bid could force Brown's hand.[LNB]Chairman Adam Pearson has spoken openly of the necessity to cut the wage bill by up to £6million but so far this month only fringe defender Nathan Doyle has been moved on.[LNB]Brown, however, believes Wolves could also be mischief-making in their continued attempts to prise Hunt away because of the importance of Saturday's game at the KC Stadium.[LNB]The two clubs are both embroiled in the relegation fight and are separated by just one point at the bottom end of the table.[LNB]Brown added: "They probably are (mischief-making), but it is not (manager) Mick McCarthy.[LNB]"He doesn't deal that way and he has been on the phone to me.[LNB]"He has said there is a genuine interest but he is not the only one.[LNB]"There are a number of clubs interested in Stephen Hunt but we have stood in the way.[LNB]"(Wolves chief executive) Jez Moxey said in his programme notes on Tuesday he is not going to bid £10million for a player worth £2-3million.[LNB]"However, he has bid £4million, so I don't know where he is standing."[LNB]Loan signing Amr Zaki is set to make his Tigers debut off the bench on Saturday having joined the club until the end of the season.[LNB]Influential midfielder Jimmy Bullard is not fit to return after almost two months out with a knee injury and Tuesday's rearranged clash with Chelsea is also likely to be too soon.[LNB][LNB] Hull v Wolves. Click here to bet.
