Steve Bruce has told in-demand Tom Ince that he has an "integral" part to play in helping Hull City win promotion to the Premier League next season.
Ince spent the second half of last term on loan with Derby County while his parent club were struggling in the top flight, before being relegated on the final day of the season.
The 23-year-old struck 11 goals in 18 appearances for the Rams, and Newcastle United boss Steve McClaren - who signed him for County - is reportedly keen on a reunion.
It has been reported that Ince has a £5m release clause written into his contract, but Bruce is desperate to keep him and says that he is their best hope of returning among England's elite.
"We don't want to lose Tom," he is quoted as saying by the Hull Daily Mail. "He's an integral player in our plans for next season and not someone we want to sell.
"There is a release clause there but until someone is willing to meet that he will stay as a Hull City player.
"I can understand the interest after he did so well at Derby last season but I'm doing everything in my power to keep him with us. I've spoken with Tom and made it clear we want him to stay. We want a young, driven team in the Championship and he certainly fits that bill."
Ince's contract expires next summer.
Shane Callaghan
