Hull City have identified Claudio Pizarro, the Chelsea forward, as the solution to their lack of high-quality strikers.

The Premier League newcomers, however, admit that money could be a stumbling block in their pursuit of the 29-year-old Peru international, who scored only two goals in 31 appearances last season.

"We've made contact with Chelsea with regards to Claudio," Phil Brown, the Hull manager said. "It's a very expensive option, but it would be an option if we were allowed to speak to the lad. That's where it lies at the moment."

Pizarro, who has been linked with a loan move to Stoke City, arrived at Stamford Bridge on a free transfer from Bayern Munich last summer but made little impression. He is reported to be unwanted at Chelsea but he may have to wait for an update on the club's approach for Robinho before being allowed to leave.

Hull begin their Premier League season at home to Fulham with Caleb Folan, the forward, a doubt after sustaining an abductor injury. Hull have already had moves for Kevin Davies, Marlon King and Fraizer Campbell fall through and will start with Dean Windass up front on Saturday.