While the arrival of January means clubs can start buying players, it also means some players currently within squads are now heading into the final six-months of their contract.
Players who are out of contract in the summer are now able to negotiate terms elsewhere should they wish - something which Hartlepool found out to their detriment last season with the likes of Luke Molyneux and Timi Odusina unable to agree a new deal at the end of the season.
And once again there are a number of key players who are entering the final few months of their current deals at the Suit Direct Stadium.
Here are nine players Hartlepool could lose this summer should terms not be agreed over a new contract in the coming months.
5. Mohamad Sylla
Sylla has been one of the more successful summer acquisitions under previous manager Paul Hartley. The former Oldham Athletic midfielder has established himself as a first team regular in Keith Curle’s side and is likely to be one the Hartlepool manager will be keen to sit down with ahead of the summer. At 29-years-old Sylla still has plenty to offer at the Suit Direct Stadium as he offers a presence in midfield and is one supporters may also be keen to see remain with the club. (Credit: Scott Llewellyn | MI News) Photo: Scott Llewellyn
6. Patrick Boyes
Young goalkeeper Boyes agreed another year’s deal at the Suit Direct Stadium earlier in the season before heading out on loan in non-league. Boyes enjoyed a successful spell with Pontefract Collieries before moving to Stockton Town. Signed from Grimsby Town with a view to the future, Boyes may be one the club will look to continue to keep around and develop. MI News & Sport Ltd Photo: MI News & Sport Ltd
7. Kyle Letheren
Letheren joined Hartlepool as a player-coach under previous manager Paul Hartley with the emphasis leaning more towards the coaching side. The experienced stopper has made just one appearance for Pools - a forgetful one at that in a 6-0 defeat to Everton under-21s. Should Letheren be offered a new deal you would expect it to be a continuation of his coaching based role. (Credit: Mark Fletcher | MI News) Photo: Mark Fletcher
8. Rollin Menayese
Hartlepool supporters were able to express their relief at the news Menayese’s loan agreement did not include a return clause with parent club Walsall meaning the defender will remain at the Suit Direct Stadium until the end of the season. While not free from errors himself, Menayese has been a bright spark in a team who have struggled defensively this season. The Mail understands there is no view-to-buy clause in Menayese’s deal which means the club would need to approach Walsall over a potential move with the defender’s current deal with the Saddlers running until 2024. (Credit: Tom West | MI News) Photo: Tom West