Leeds United have entered the race for Hartlepool's exciting midfielder Josh Hawkes, the 19-year old currently turning heads across the Championship.

Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Newcastle have all been monitoring his progress recently, according to the Sunderland Echo. He's only been in the National League side's starting eleven for a handful of games, but his performances have been stand-out, leading to a clamour for his signature.

Former Boro defender Matthew Bates is in charge at Victoria Park at present, and he's already a huge fan of his young player. After his full debut, Bates told the Gazette Live: "He's learning and for his age you won't see a better player in the area. His decision making was that of a senior player. He will stay grounded and have to react to the knocks. It's up to him to go far and do it. He doesn't doubt himself. I've been there myself as a young player, and he will get bumps along the way."

It is mentioned in the report that Hartlepool recently blocked a request by Sunderland to watch him in action and with a year left to run on his current deal any pursuit is going to be costly.

The Verdict

Hawkes is clearly a special talent, but he's played a couple of matches, nothing more. He'd be best kept playing men's football at that level than stepping up to the U23 side of a bigger club where the result is never as important as 'doing things right'. There's a lot to be said for blooding youngsters early and I fear a move to a big club could stifle him.