Not only have Pools lost ground on many of their rivals as a result of the ongoing takeover debacle, the club's reputation looks to have taken another hit. With 10 players having already left this summer and the likes of Mani Dieseruvwe, Joe Grey and Nathan Sheron all looking likely to depart, Pools are faced with the daunting task of having to rebuild almost their entire squad. Here's a look at 23 free agents that could appeal to them this summer.
17. Luca Thomas
Pools might well be in the market for a Joe Grey replacement this summer and Thomas is available on a free following his release by Leeds. The fleet-footed youngster scored three times in 21 games for Halifax last season and looked lively against Pools back in March, while he impressed during a brief stint at York at the beginning of the campaign, finding the net twice in 10 matches. Photo: Chris Nutton/FC Halifax Town
18. Kairo Mitchell
Scored 16 goals in 47 games for Rochdale last season, including nine in seven during a prolific spell in September. Fell out of favour somewhat towards the end of the campaign but is likely to attract interest this summer. Photo: jason chadwick
19. Dion Pereira
Released by Luton following an impressive 18 months on loan at Dagenham and Redbridge, where he scored 17 goals in 72 games across two separate spells. Photo: Getty Images
20. Jack Stott
The industrious midfielder is set to leave Middlesbrough this summer. Has limited experience of senior football following brief loan spells at York and Gateshead. Could dovetail well with Jamie Miley and would benefit from Nicky Featherstone's experience. Photo: George Wood