Hartlepool United loan striker linked with move to League Two rivals Bristol Rovers

Saunders made just three appearances for Pools while on loan from Fleetwood Town before his season was effectively cut short by a knee injury picked up last month.

Now the striker is set for a reunion with former manager Joey Barton at Bristol Rovers, according to Bristol Live.

The 23-year-old was named as one of the players who wouldn’t be offered a new deal at Fleetwood when their retained list was published, making him available on a free this summer.

Barton signed Saunders for Fleetwood from Darlington in January 2019 before he was loaned straight back to Pools’ local rivals.

He joined Dave Challinor’s side on loan in April 2021, making his debut off the bench in the 3-1 win over Chesterfield before starting the defeats against Bromley and Maidenhead.

A message from the Football Clubs Editor

Our aim is to provide you with the best, most up-to-date and most informative Hartlepool United coverage 365 days a year.

This depth of coverage costs, so to help us maintain the high-quality reporting that you are used to, please consider taking out a subscription to our new sports-only package here.

Your support is much appreciated. Richard Mennear, Football Clubs Editor