Hull City's move for Stoke City midfielder Wilson Palacios has stalled.
The Daily Star says Tigers boss Steve Bruce was ready to offer £2m for the Honduran international, who fell out of favour with Tony Pulis last season.
But new Potters manager Mark Hughes insists he wants to hand the 28-year-old a key role in this campaign.
Hughes said: "I have had conversations with Wilson and I am pleased with what I have seen from him in pre-season.
"I think he could be a good option for us this year."