Hull City have begun talks with Inter Milan over a permanent deal for Andrea Ranocchia.

Despite the Tigers' Premier League status not yet assured, Gazzetta dello Sport says Hull have opened talks with Inter about a price for Ranocchia's outright signing.

Inter chief Piero Ausilio is happy to do business and hopes to raise €10 million from the sale.

Such has been Ranocchia's form under Hull manager Marco Silva that he is attracting rival interest within the Premier League - including from champions-elect Chelsea.

Blues boss Antonio Conte worked with the former Inter captain as Italy coach.