Sheffield United are among a host of clubs interested in signing Hartlepool United midfielder Josh Hawkes.
TEAMtalk claims that there are eight sides keeping tabs on Hawkes, who has been impressing in non-league this season.
North East trio Middlesbrough, Newcastle United and Sunderland have a long held interest in the 20 year old. This should perhaps come as little surprise with Hawkes being from the same area.
However, in recent times that interest has broadened, with several others keeping tabs. The Blades are among them, as are Barnsley, Burnley, Huddersfield Town and Hull City.
Who is Josh Hawkes?
(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
A product of the Hartlepool academy, Hawkes made his debut towards the latter end of 2016/17, aged 18. The youngster made two appearances before Pools were relegated from League Two.
The following season Hawkes played 12 times for the National League outfit – but it is this term in which the midfielder has really blossomed.
In 21 matches in 2018/19 he has five goals, including a brace against Boreham Wood earlier in February. It took some time for Hawkes to cement his place in the team, playing just once before September 22. He has only missed four league games since and has featured in the last 15 on the bounce.
With the ability to play on the left or in central midfield, Hawkes has been likened to his current manager – Craig Hignett.
Hignett has recognised the talent of the academy product and appreciates he may not be at Victoria Park for long.
“We do a lot of work with just because we know what he’s got,” the Pools boss told the Hartlepool Mail.
“He’s got goals in him and I’m sure he’s got a big future.
“If he keeps doing that week in, week out and playing like he is, then he won’t be here for long.”
