Hull City boss Steve Bruce is hoping for a breakthrough in his search for new midfielders after holding talks with Evian's Mohammed Rabiu.
Bruce and managing director Nick Thompson left the Tigers' 3-0 win over Real Betis at half-time and flew to France to accelerate their chase for new signings ahead of the Premier League kick-off.
Top of the wish-list is now believed to be Rabiu and the Mail understands Bruce met the 23-year-old Ghana international and his representatives yesterday.
Evian, who have already sold Yannick Sagbo to the Tigers this summer, are willing to sell Rabiu for the right price but City's chase could be complicated after interest was also lodged by an unnamed Russian club.
However, Bruce will hope his decision to fly to France is vindicated and that City can conclude a deal in the next 48 hours.
Rabiu is a defensively-minded midfielder with experience in Italy with Sampdoria and Udinese and would fill the void in a department Bruce has prioritised in the transfer market.