Transfer news: Hull City deny Shane Long agreement after reports emerge over deal for West Brom striker

The Tigers are yet to make a move for West Brom's Republic of Ireland striker

Shane Long is interesting Hull City (Getty Images)

Reports that Hull City are on the verge of sealing a £5m deal for West Brom striker Shane Long appear wide off the mark as the Tigers are yet to register their interest in the Republic of Ireland international.

Tigers manager Steve Bruce failed in a transfer deadline day swoop for Long last summer and the player has been a long-term target for the East Yorkshire club ever since.

Reports had surfaced this morning that Bruce has returned for the Baggies forward after a £7m bid for Sunderland hitman Steven Fletcher was refused.

The Independent understands, however, that both stories are unfounded.

Long, capped forty-three times for his country, has appeared on just fourteen occasions for manager less Albion this season with three goals to his name.

With five first-team strikers alongside Long - including Nicolas Anelka, Saido Berahino, Stéphane Sessègnon, Matěj Vydra and Victor Anichebe - the Midlanders' chairman Jeremy Peace is likely to consider any deal including a fee to be an achievement with the 26-year-old out of contract in the summer.

Bruce's men have been performing above all expectations this season - apart from maybe their own - and sit in tenth place in the Premier League table.

The Tigers have since released a statement on the club's website.

"Contrary to reports in the media this morning, the Club confirms that it has not reached any agreement with West Bromwich Albion over the transfer of striker Shane Long," it said.

"As such we will not be conducting a medical with the player today."