Stephen Ward issues plea for permanent switch away from Wolves

The 28-year-old left-back has been the biggest success story of the players exiled by head coach Kenny Jackett last summer.

Ward made 47 appearances for the south coast club this season as Brighton reached the play-offs before losing on aggregate to Derby in the semi-finals.

Ward has a year left of his estimated £15,000-a-week contract at Molineux, and Wolves are expected to demand a fee for his sale.

But the Ireland international would welcome the opportunity to stay at Brighton and is waiting to see what happens over the next few weeks.

"Whatever happens will be done in the summer," said Ward.

"I'm hopeful it's not going to be my last game at the Amex for Brighton.

"It's difficult. I'm contracted so there are a lot of negotiations and talks to go on behind the scenes that will not even involve me.

"I will leave that all to the powers that be in the summer.

"But I don't have one negative word to say about this place and how this year has gone for me.

"It's been a fantastic move for me, a real breath of fresh air in my career."

Wolves head coach Kenny Jackett has said the eight senior players returning from loans are unlikely to feature in his plans for next season.

Jackett signed Scott Golbourne from Barnsley to fill the left-back berth to replace Ward and the 25-year-old has been a roaring success this season as Wolves stormed to the League One title.

Meanwhile Wolves, along with FA Cup finalists Hull and Wigan have been linked with Doncaster left-back James Husband.

The 20-year-old played 28 of his 64 League appearances for the relegated Championship side this season as Jackett seeks cover for Golbourne after the exit of George Elokobi.

Husband remains under contract at Rovers but could be tempted by a move after the club was relegated.