Hughton dispatched scouts to Holland to see Tiote, who won the Dutch League with FC Twente under Steve McClaren last season, but reports emerged of West Brom launching a £3million bid for the Ivory Coast midfielder.
Hughton was playing down the extent of their interest in the 24-year-old, but either Mike Ashley tops the £3m offer or we can wave goodbye to the player.
Hughton: “We’re still working at it. It’s difficult at the moment and I must admit that it’s frustrating at the moment but that is the nature of the transfer window.
“I’m still hopeful that we’re going to be able to make those additions.”
It's frustrating alright, when others have money to splash around and Hughton has to dig about in the bargain bin.