Hartlepool United transfer rumours: Gime Toure linked with EIGHT clubs including Tranmere Rovers, Blackpool and Motherwell with defender Fraser Kerr linked with York City

Gime Toure of Hartlepool United rues a missed chance during the Vanarama National League match between Hartlepool United and Stockport County at Victoria Park, Hartlepool on Saturday 25th January 2020. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News)

The French forward returned from his three match suspension to help Pools to a 2-0 win over Stockport County at Victoria Park on Saturday.

There has been plenty of speculation regarding Toure’s future at Hartlepool after manager Dave Challinor criticised the player following his three match suspension for violent conduct at Oxford United.

While Toure currently remains in Challinor’s plans, the player’s representatives, RT Management & Consultancy, have claimed that the Frenchman has been ‘targeted by’ Tranmere Rovers, Blackpool, Northampton, Bristol Rovers, St. Johnstone, Motherwell, Exeter City and Carlisle United.

While there is interest in the forward, Carlisle and St. Johnstone have already played down the initial speculation. Toure is believed to favour a move to the EFL over staying at Hartlepool with his representatives appearing to be trying to force a move away from Victoria Park.

Another player potentially on his way out of the club is defender Fraser Kerr. The Scottish centre-back arrived at Pools from Gateshead under controversial circumstances last February for a nominal fee.

But with Challinor strengthening his defensive line while Kerr currently nurses a back injury, the 27-year-old could see himself down the pecking order on his return to full fitness.

Kerr has been linked with York City and a reunion with his former manager Steve Watson. The defender was part of Watson’s Gateshead side that mounted an unlikely play-off challenge last season.

As it stands, any possible deal isn’t believed to have progressed beyond the initial interest stage.

In terms of potential arrivals, Pools are thought to be keeping their eye out for a new goalkeeper should they be unable to agree a deal with non-contract goalkeeper Mitch Beeney.

The 24-year-old was offered a deal having started every match for Pools this year.

Challinor is also keen to bring in another striker this month with a tall, physical forward being the priority following the departure of Nicke Kabamba.

While no deal, temporary or permanent, is believed to be imminent, things could develop quickly with deadline day for EFL clubs fast approaching.