Brown: More new faces to come

Republic of Ireland international Stephen Hunt, 28, and 25-year-old Algeria forward Kamel Ghilas have joined from Reading and Celta Vigo respectively and Brown insists there is more to come before the end of the transfer window.

"As for Negredo, it has been four to six weeks since we first made contact with Real Madrid, but it's hard dealing with a club as big as they are," said Brown. "But we are very, very hopeful. In time for Chelsea on Saturday, though? I don't know."

Madrid striker Negredo remains the number-one target for Brown, who would have to smash the club's current transfer record to secure the £12 million-rated Spaniard, who has also attracted interest from the likes of Villarreal, Roma, Stuttgart and Zenit St Petersburg, on a permanent deal.

Reflecting on the dual capture of Hunt and Ghilas, who have both agreed four-year deals for undisclosed fees, Brown said: "They are two more additions to our squad and they will help add strength and depth.

"Stephen is well known in the English leagues and we are hopeful he will add to the midfield with regard to scoring goals and providing goals. Kamel is a product of our scouting network. We've worked long and hard scanning France, Italy, Spain, Germany and one or two other areas.

"A lot of people may not know Kamel now, but, hopefully, that will change over the course of the season."

Hunt, who arrived at the club's Cottingham training ground just hours after returning to England following Ireland's friendly defeat to Australia, described his joy at returning to the top flight following a year in the Coca-Cola Championship.

He said: "I know how difficult the second season syndrome in the Premier League can be from Reading, so, hopefully, I can bring my experience of that here. The most important thing is to keep the enthusiasm for the game and not take playing in the Premier League for granted. It's so exciting and I'm just glad to have that back."

If Hull manage to sign Negredo, he would be their fifth signing of the summer, joining Hunt, Ghilas, Seyi Olofinjana and Jozy Altidore.