Manchester City boss Mark Hughes wants clear-the-air talks with his board over speculation that owner Thaksin Shinawatra is considering selling up.The Sun says Hughes was promised big funds to strengthen his team after being appointed boss at the end of last season.

City have so far signed Brazilian striker Jo for £19million - which was arranged before Hughes' arrival - and Chelsea defender Tal Ben-Haim for £4m.

But now full-back Vedran Corluka is up for sale for £7m - and it is not clear how much cash Hughes has to spend.