Boateng revealed last month that he is open to offers as he enters the final year of his contract at the Riverside.

The Dutchman fell out with Boro boss Gareth Southgate last season and has now been given the opportunity to join Premier League new boys Hull.

A fee has yet to be agreed between the two clubs, but Tigers chairman Paul Duffen confirmed discussions have been held with Boateng.

"Talks have been going on for a couple of weeks now, but it's important to say we are talking to him with the consent of Middlesbrough Football Club" Duffen told the Hull Daily Mail.

"We are hopeful that we might be able to reach an agreement with him.

"Talks with the player and Middlesbrough are at a very advanced stage."

Meanwhile, Duffen confirmed the club are finalising a deal for Brazilian midfielder Geovanni, who has been released by Manchester City.

"The Geovanni deal is now very close to completion" added Duffen.

"He had a medical yesterday and if the scan results come back clear we should be in a position to confirm the transfer is completed."

Geovanni's former City team-mate Emile Mpenza, who has also been released by Mark Hughes, is due to link up with Hull during their pre-season training camp in Italy.