Sunderland and Middlesbrough are set to face Premier League opposition in their hunt for Hartlepool star Josh Hawkes, according to a report from TeamTalk.

The Stockton-born 20-year-old has been in sensational form for Pools, who are currently plying their trade in the National League. He's bagged three goals in his last four matches and is now attracting interest from a host of top clubs.

Sunderland are thought to have a long standing interest in the player, but Newcastle and Burnley are also credited with keeping an eye on his development.

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Leeds were also credited with interest back in April, with the player continuing to impress for Pools. He's enjoyed loan spells with Dunston and Marske, but is rapidly becoming a key figure at Victoria Park, with five goals in 21 matches from midfield this season.

Hartlepool, managed by former Middlesbrough player Craig Hignett, are currently 13th in the National League, having lost their Football League status in May 2017.

The Verdict

It seems as though interest in Hawkes has been building for a while, with a host of clubs watching him for almost a year now.

He's only proven in the National League, but he'd make a fine addition to an Under 23 side. With the benefit of better facilites and coaching, he might be an unpolished diamond waiting to be found.