HARTLEPOOL United face competition from Championship sides Scunthorpe and Sheffield Wednesday for the services of Danny Graham.
The striker was last week freed by Middlesbrough and has long been courted by Pools' boss Danny Wilson.
Graham, a former Chester-le-Street Town striker, spent time on loan at Carlisle last season and, while the Cumbrians would like to sign him permanently, Graham is believed to be far from keen at the prospect of travelling to Cumbria each day.
And the fact that his former Boro reserve team-mate Gary Liddle has enjoyed an outstanding season at Victoria Park since leaving the Riverside last summer has not gone unnoticed.
Wednesday are also considering a move for Scunthorpe front man Billy Sharp, and the outcome of any deal between the clubs could affect their interest in Graham.
Both clubs have been in touch with Graham, but Pools have already been in discussions.
Wilson is keen to add at least one striker to his squad after handing Eifion Williams a free transfer last week.
Wednesday are also one of the teams hoping to capture Pools' keeper Dimi Konstantopoulos this summer.
The Greek is out of contract and, although he has been offered a new deal at Victoria Park, there is strong interest from Watford, Coventry and Wednesday.
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