Hull are hopeful that back-rower Danny Tickle will sign a new deal at the KC Stadium, despite reports linking him with a move away from the club.
Tickle, 29, was offered a new contract in April last year, but it remains unsigned, with Widnes believed to be one of the clubs interested in his signature.
The new transfer regulations mean that the former Wigan man can talk to other clubs from the start of May.
Hull's director of rugby Shaun McRae said: "Danny has had his injury and has just come back into the team and we are not at the stage of talking to him, but we will be having a conversation at some stage in the near future."
Tickle has made more than 150 appearances for the Airlie Birds since arriving from Wigan in 2007.
Another (ex Wigan) player being linked with Widnes
Anyone can support a team when it is winning, that takes no courage.
But to stand behind a team, to defend a team when it is down and really needs you,
that takes a lot of courage. #18thMan
