Jaden Philogene drops major hint over Hull City future amid Barcelona and Premier League talks

Jaden Philogene has perhaps given his clearest indication yet of his intention to leave Hull City this summer and seek a move to the Premier League.

Philogene is a man in demand and is the subject of a strong bid from top-flight newcomers Ipswich Town with the 22-year-old thought to be keen on a switch to Portman Road and the opportunity to cut his teeth in the league above, which could also see his Tigers teammate Jacob Greaves make the same switch.

Town, who secured a second successive promotion under Kieran McKenna back in May, tried to sign Philogene 12 months ago before he opted to join the Tigers, and have lodged a bid in the region of £35m for the in-demand pair with owner Acun Ilicali mulling it over, though there is other interest.

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The City star, who bagged 12 goals and six assists in his first season with the Tigers last term following his £5m move from Aston Villa, has been linked with a host of clubs in recent days, and though Ilicali is reluctant to allow the winger to leave, will not stand in his way.

Catalan giants Barcelona had enquired about Philogene's availability but City are believed to only be considering a permanent sale and not a loan-to-buy agreement, which has almost certainly ruled the financially-stricken La Liga outfit out of the running, but in quotes attributed to Philogene by a pro-Barca podcast, the talented star is credited as saying that his dream remains to play in Spain, but will move to the Premier League for now.

“I chose the Premier League because it is the clearest offer I have, but my dream is still La Liga," Que T'hi Jugues podcast claimed. "Barça is my dream, I hope I can sign for them one day. My idols are Ronaldinho and Neymar."

If Philogene is to move on, City will hope to strike a deal sooner rather than later to give new boss Tim Walter chance to recruit a suitable replacement for a player who played a pivotal role in helping the Tigers mount a push for the play-offs last term.