Sunderland target Josh Hawkes has rejected a new contract offer from Hartlepool United, according to Hartlepool Mail.

Wholesome changes are expected to be made this summer at the Stadium of Light after Phil Parkinson's side failed to gain promotion to the Championship.

A second successive failure to get themselves out of the English third-tier will now put added pressure on the shoulders of Parkinson, who guided his side to an eighth-placed finish in the League One standings.

With a number of first team regulars set to leave the club on a free transfer, reports have emerged linking Hawkes with a move to the Wearside club.

Hawkes, who impressed for Hartlepool over the course of the 2019/2020 season, is also being courted by a number of Premier League sides such as Burnley and Sheffield United, whilst Middlesbrough, Huddersfield Town, Hull City and Barnsley are also said to be keen.

The 21-year-old will have a tough choice to make come July 1 after he rejected fresh terms with Hartlepool, as reported by the Hartlepool Mail.

Portuguese club Braga have also been labelled with interest in Hawkes, who has netted 13 goals in 63 games for Pool.

It seems like a no brainer for Sunderland to make a move for Hawkes, especially given the list of interested teams in his services.

A free transfer would be ideal for Black Cats' boss Parkinson, who could then go on to spend cash elsewhere. However, they may find it difficult to clinch a deal if a club from one of the two higher divisions in England make a move.

Do you think Hawkes would be a good free transfer for Sunderland to make? Let us know in the comments section below...