Mark Kitching signs for Stockport County after contract discussions at Hartlepool United fail to progress

The 24-year-old left-back was offered a new deal at Pools following the end of the 2019-20 campaign which failed to materialise.

Manager Dave Challinor told The Mail last month that Kitching would not be returning to the club after contract discussions failed to progress.

Now Stockport, who confirmed the signings of Connor and James Jennings from Tranmere Rovers and Wrexham respectively on Thursday, have snapped up Kitching.

Stockport’s Director of Football Simon Wilson told the club website: “Mark was one of the first players Jim and I discussed on my arrival to the club.

"Modern-day full-backs are required to do many things, and Mark ticks a lot of boxes – with the ability in a strong team under Jim to get better.

“He was a stand out opportunity this summer, at 24 with no compensation payable and significant game time in this league under his belt, and we had to beat off a number of other clubs for his signature.

"We’re grateful to Mark for his belief in our plans and choosing to move his life and commit to the area and I’m confident he will be a great success here.”

Kitching had emerged as one of the first names on Challinor’s team sheet during the 2019-20 campaign following significantly improved displays under the Pools boss.

And the club were hoping to tie Kitching down to a new deal before talks ultimately stalled.

Following his arrival at Stockport, Kitching tweeted: “Buzzing to sign for Stockport County. Really ambitious club, can’t wait to get started.”

Hartlepool are yet to confirm any contract renewals or new signings so far this summer as they remain with just eight contracted players ahead of the new season.

An official start date for the 2020-21 National League campaign is yet to be confirmed but the latest Government announcement of allowing fans back in stadia from October has given restart plans a significant boost.

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