Mayweather (left) v Hatton could happen later this year

Mayweather says he is willing to come out of retirement to fight Manchester's light welterweight champion.

"I've spoken to some of his people and they've been very receptive. It's a very substantial offer," said Hobson.

However, Hatton's former promoter Frank Warren claims he could promote some of his future fights after settling his libel row with the fighter's father.

Interview: Boxing promoter Frank Warren

Warren agreed an out-of-court settlement with Ray Hatton after deciding to sue him for comments he made in a radio interview in 2005.

"I'm glad we are sitting down and the matter is behind us," said Warren.

Talks with Malignaggi's camp have been encouraging but that's a Madison Square Garden fight Dennis Hobson

"Ray and I have agreed that we'll sit down when he gets back from Las Vegas to discuss future fights for Ricky."

Hatton, who split with Warren two years ago, has just finished a three-fight deal with Hobson.

Oscar de le Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions and Don King are also both believed to have approached the unbeaten Hatton, who made it 43 wins out of 43 by stopping Mexico's Jose Luis Castillo last weekend.

But Hobson is confident he can negotiate a new deal with Hatton and insists the expected huge attendance figures could bankroll a clash with Mayweather.

He added: "There is no reason we can't do it over here. We would be happy to align it with pay-per-view time in the States so it could suit both sides of the Atlantic.

"Mayweather is saying he wants to put pen to paper and this is his big chance to do so."

Hobson also revealed he has been in talks with representatives of IBF light welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi.

"Talks with Malignaggi's camp have been encouraging but that is definitely a Madison Square Garden fight," said Hobson.

"Ideally we would like to get the next one secured in this country for Ricky."