HARTLEPOOL United boss Chris Turner is closing in on a new signing.

In the absence of broken leg victim Gordon Watson, who is out of action for a further six weeks, Turner is believed to lining up a move in the transfer market in the next 24 hours and is in talks with an unnamed striker who is available on a free transfer.

The Pool boss has been in the market for a targetman in the past, with the likes of Paul Beavers and Jon Parkin looked at during loan stints at Victoria Park.

However, Turner is confident of landing his man - who fits the bill - on a free transfer and if it is completed in time, he could make a quick-fire debut in this afternoon's reserve game with Scarborough at Seaham Red Star.

Meanwhile, Pool centre of excellence youngster Chris Gilligan has been called into the England under-16 squad for the Victory Shield tournament in Northern Ireland from Monday 14 to Friday, October 19.

The left-sided midfielder has accepted a scholarship contract with Pool when he leaves the town's St Hilds school.

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