Fulham manager Mark Hughes said he is “very close” to securing the services of former Chelsea and Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen on a permanent basis.

Gudjohnsen, 32, has been on loan at Craven Cottage from Stoke since January and would be available from the Potters on a free transfer in the summer.

Hughes said: “I’ve been really pleased with what Eidur’s brought to us and I know that he’s enjoying his time here.

“Eidur would like to stay, I’m sure, and we would reciprocate that as well.”

The Cottagers boss added: “We’re hopeful it’ll get done quite soon.”

Gudjohnsen made his Fulham debut as a substitute in a 2-2 Premier League draw at Aston Villa.

And the Icelandic international has gone on to make eight appearances in all competitions for the Cottagers.

He only joined Stoke on a one-year deal from French club Monaco at the end of August 2010 but found his opportunities limited at the Britannia Stadium.