Hull City manager Shota Arveladze has confirmed that on-loan Manchester United defender Di'Shon Bernard is open to extending his stay at the Championship club beyond the end of this season.
The centre-back, who joined United's academy back in 2017 at the age of 16, joined the Tigers on loan for the duration of the season back in July, in the hope of gaining regular first-team football.
Bernard had spent time on loan at League Two side Salford City last season and a move to a Championship club was seen as a good next step in the 21-year-old's development.
Having racked up 25 appearances in all competitions so far this season, Bernard has earned plenty of rave reviews and plaudits during his time in East Yorkshire, so much so, according to recently appointed Tigers boss Arveladze, he is open to staying at the club beyond the end of the season.
Asked if Bernard is prepared to remain at the club beyond the end of the campaign, Arveladze told Hull Live : "Yes, he's open.
"Mostly the boys who play say that they see their future here could give them a chance to play (regular) games.
"In this league, because there are so many games, even if you miss some chances to play, there's a game and a chance to play in two or three days.
"It's a great chance for them to play regularly, and probably they realise this. I've spoken with them and they're open for their futures, so let's see."
Hull, who were recently the subject of a big-money Turkish takeover, are planning to make significant progress next season following their return to the Championship this term, and new owner Acun Ilicali is keen to sign Chelsea loanee Nathan Baxter and Bernard on permanent deals to strengthen their ranks.
Arveladze added: "I don’t know exactly if we have spoken to their clubs (Manchester United and Chelsea).
"We will talk to each other, a process we've already started. We'll talk with their agents, today (Thursday) I've spoken with Dish (Bernard).
"We are busy, the club is working hard. I've already spoken to the players and they see their future at this club, which is good to know.
"The process is ongoing and I think we have time, not too much, but time to sit and make the right decisions which is not easy, of course."
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
