NEWLY-promoted Hull City want Reading FC schemer Oliver Norwood to anchor their midfield in the Premier League next season.

Steve Bruce's Tigers beat Sheffield Wednesday in last weekend's Championship play-off final to seal a return to the top flight.

The Chronicle understands Bruce is now keen to lure Norwood to the KC Stadium in order to bolster his midfield for the 2016/17 campaign.

Sources say Norwood's representatives from Unique Sports Management have already held talks with Hull City chiefs over a possible move.

It is believed Hull would have to cough up at least £1.5 million to secure the services of Norwood, who is currently in France with the Northern Ireland squad for the start of Euro 2016.

The 25-year-old is highly rated by Tigers assistant manager Mike Phelan, who knows Norwood well having worked with him when he was a Manchester United trainee.

Reading are thought to be open to offers for Norwood, who has one year left on his contract at Madejski Stadium.

Norwood was eager to sign a new Royals deal a few months ago, saying: “I’ve got a year left in the summer and they know I want to be here.

“I’ve spoken to them and said that. I’m sure something will happen when they are ready.”

Norwood was made Reading captain by ex-boss Brian McDermott, though Paul McShane took over the armband towards the end of the season.

But with McDermott now gone and with Reading yet to name a replacement, Norwood may be open to move elsewhere.

“I’m enjoying being here, to be given the captaincy by the gaffer was a very proud moment,” he added.

“You don’t take much notice of that [transfer speculation] to be fair,” he said. “I’m a Reading player and I’m committed.

“I see it as a wonderful football club with wonderful people who run it. The history of the club as well, it’s a wonderful place to play my football and I’m just enjoying playing every week.”

But the midfield dynamo is certain to be tempted with a move to the Premier League with Hull City.

Reports elsewhere suggest Norwood's hometown club, Burnley, are also keen on signing him following their promotion to the Premier League.

Scottish giants Celtic – now managed by ex-Royals boss Brendan Rodgers – are also showing strong interest in the player.

Meanwhile, Reading have announced another pre-season fixture and they will host AFC Wimbledon at Madejski Stadium on Saturday, July 23 (3pm ko).