Premier League Newcastle United want Hartlepool starlet Hawkes, as do Middlesbrough and Sunderland according to reports.
Hartlepool United have held talks to tie down Josh Hawkes to a new deal with Sunderland, Middlesbrough and Newcastle United targeting the talented midfielder, according to the Hartlepool Mail.
A 20-year-old born in Stockton-upon-Tees, Hawkes is one of the most promising youngsters in the North East right now so it is no surprise that he has caught the eye of the regions three biggest clubs, who have all sent scouts to watch him this season.
Hawkes has scored nine goals in 27 games and is due to become a free agent in 2020. Though Hartlepool are doing all they can to stop him leaving on a cut-price deal.
The Mail claims that the Victoria Park outfit have initiated talks with Hawkes’s representatives despite manager Craig Hignett claiming that contract negotiations had been put to one side until the season comes to an end.
At the age of 20, it may be too soon for Hawkes to make the move to Sunderland, Middlesbrough or Newcastle in particular and another season of regular football in Non-League could stand him in much better stead of successfully adapting to a new club in the future.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
