Kevin Kilbane’s move from Wigan to Premier League rivals Hull City has edged a step closer this afternoon after the player entered into talks with the Tigers.

The Republic of Ireland international, who is in the final six months of his contract, has found opportunities limited because of the form of Maynor Figueroa and Ryan Taylor on the left flank.

Kilbane, 32 next month, had hoped to earn a new deal but Wigan are prepared to let him leave in January for a small fee and the player is discussing the terms of a move to the KC Stadium today.

Hull manager Phil Brown is keen to strengthen his squad after a run of just one win in 12 matches and yesterday revealed his move for Kilbane, having agreed a fee with West Ham for Luis Boa Morte.

“We said at the start of the season we wanted to flood the place with Premier League quality and both those players have it in abundance,” he said yesterday.

“To get that quality of player in to Hull City would be great for the football club.”

Brown hopes to have the Kilbane deal concluded in time for the player to be available for Saturday’s match at home to Arsenal.