Hull manager Phil Brown has discussed a new contract with Stephen Hunt in an attempt to stave off persistent interest from Wolves. 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.
Despite their well-documented financial difficulties, Hull have rejected each offer - the latest of €4.3 million, according to Brown - but their resolve could be tested again before Monday's transfer deadline.
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.
Brown said: "He's a good player and has played his part so far this season.
"Yesterday there was firm interest from Wolves.
"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.
"Hopefully that will continue from now until the end of the season.
"I spoke to Stephen this morning and began preliminary talks with regards to a new contract.
"That's how keen we are on keeping Stephen at this football club."
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.
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.
Chairman Adam Pearson has spoken openly of the necessity to cut the wage bill by up to €6.5 million but so far this month only fringe defender Nathan Doyle has been moved on.
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.
The two clubs are both embroiled in the relegation fight and are separated by just one point at the bottom end of the table.
Brown added: "They probably are (mischief-making), but it is not (manager) Mick McCarthy.
"He doesn't deal that way and he has been on the phone to me.
"He has said there is a genuine interest but he is not the only one.
"There are a number of clubs interested in Stephen Hunt but we have stood in the way.
"(Wolves chief executive) Jez Moxey said in his programme notes on Tuesday he is not going to bid £10 million for a player worth £2-3 million.
"However, he has bid £4 million, so I don't know where he is standing."
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.
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.