Hull City's Jaden Philogene comments on Barcelona links, transfer preference

Numbers-wise, the 22-year-old went into the latest campaign having had an underwhelming start to his professional career.

However, that all changed for the former Aston Villa youngster when he made the switch to the MKM Stadium in August, emerging as one of the best playmakers in the Championship.

A total of 12 goals and six assists came from 32 appearances in the second tier, naturally leading to talk that he may move to a bigger club during the summer transfer window.

What no-one anticipated was a surprise link to Barcelona who are not necessarily in the position to spend money on any player, never mind one from Hull.

Philogene plays down Barcelona talk

Representatives of Philogene have been seen in Barcelona this week amid suggestions that talks may have been held with the hierarchy at Camp Nou.

Instead, Philogene has revealed that he will not be joining the La Liga side, instead acknowledging that he has his sights set on a move to the Premier League.

Speaking to Que T'hi Jugues, Philogene said: "I chose the Premier League because it is the clearest offer I have, but my dream is still La Liga.

"Barça is my dream, I hope I can sign for them one day. My idols are Ronaldinho and Neymar."

Who could Philogene join?

As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Crystal Palace are among the clubs monitoring the situation, as are Everton and Ipswich Town.

Palace will have money to spend if they cash in on Michael Olise, although it is unclear whether the Toffees or Tractor Boys are in a position to meet the 22-year-old's valuation.

Hull owner Acun Ilicali has already acknowledged that Philogene wants to move elsewhere, hinting that he will not stand in his way.

In an interview with talkSPORT, he said: "If Jaden wants to move and he says he wants to go somewhere, this is something we cannot do too much about because this is his life.

"I love all my boys, I am responsible for their careers. So they don't need to play with us if they don't want to play with us."

The Tigers also face a battle to retain the services of defender Jacob Greaves, who is also attracting attention from England's top flight.