Former Hull City striker Dean Windass has insisted that Thomas Ince would be "a great addition" to the squad at the KC Stadium.
The free agent has been linked with a host of clubs this summer, but recent reports have suggested that the England Under-21 international is on the verge of signing for the Tigers.
Should the deal be concluded, Windass believes that Ince has the necessary quality to help keep Hull in the Premier League for another season.
"He needs to start playing football now and get regular football under his belt. He'll be a great addition to the squad and is one of those players that can carry the ball," Windass told Sky Sports News.
"The second season in the Premier League is always going to be tough and Steve [Bruce] will be trying to get as many quality players in as he can. Certainly Tom Ince fits that bill and if he does come it will be a great addition."
Ince, who left Blackpool at the end of last season, spent time on loan in the top flight last term with Crystal Palace.