Josh Hawkes has rejected a new contract at Hartlepool United with the Sunderland, Burnley and Sheffield United target due to become a free-agent on July 1, according to the Hartlepool Mail.
Considering that a 21-year-old prospect has offers on the table from clubs in the top three tiers of English football, it should be no surprise that he is looking to take a big step up the ladder this summer.
Hawkes only has a week left on his contract at Victoria Park.
And amid claims from TEAMtalk that the Stockton-born youngster could be on his way to Sunderland, with Premier League duo Burnley and Sheffield United also expressing an interest, he appears to have played his last game in Hartlepool colours.
“I’ve had really good conversations with the lads we’ve made offers to and unfortunately, there will be lads leaving the club,” manager Dave Challinor has admitted.
“Josh Hawkes will leave the club.”
Hull City, Barnsley and Huddersfield have been linked too, while a shock move to Portuguese giants Braga is also on the cards.
So it’s fair to say Hawkes is spoiled for choice.
The chance to work with Chris Wilder, a coach who has turned many a lower league player into top-flight stars, should appeal with John Fleck, John Lundstram, Enda Stevens and more playing the best football of their careers under the Blades boss at Bramall Lane.
But if Hawkes wants to stay close to home, and join a club where regular first-team football would be easier to come by, then he could make the 38 mile trip to Sunderland instead.
Having scored 11 times in the last two seasons, he could maybe become the goalscoring midfielder the Black Cats have needed for years.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
