Hull City's on-loan Everton defender Matthew Pennington is open to making his move to the KCOM Stadium a permanent one in the summer transfer window, a report from Hull Live has claimed.

Pennington joined the Tigers on a season-long loan back in the summer transfer window, and has since gone on to make 11 appearances for the Tigers, who are currently 21st in the Championship table, two points clear of the relegation zone.

It was recently reported that Everton are willing to allow the defender to leave on a permanent basis in the summer transfer window, and it seems Pennington already has his next move on his mind.

According to the latest reports, Pennington would be happy to complete a permanent transfer to Hull, having apparently formed a good relationship with Tigers boss Grant McCann during his time with the club.

However, it is thought that any chance of a permanent deal could depend on both the asking price Everton will demand for Pennington, and the size of contract that Hull would be able to offer the defender.

A graduate of Everton's academy, Pennington has made a total of nine appearances in all competitions for the Toffees, while also spending time out on loan with the likes of Tranmere, Coventry, Walsall, Leeds and Ipswich.

There are currently just over 12 months remaining on Pennington's contract with Everton, securing his future at Goodison Park until the end of next season.

The Verdict

This is an interesting one.

It does seem as though Everton are keen to move Pennington on in the summer, so it makes sense for him to start plotting his next move as soon as possible.

Having already familiarised himself with Hull during his time at the club this season, that could be a good place for him to secure a permanent deal, given he is already likely to be settled there.

Add to that the fact that McCann himself seems to be pleased with Pennington given the two seemingly have a good relationship, you feel that this would be a decent deal for all parties, should they be able to make it happen.