HARTLEPOOL United are understood to be on the verge of a takeover.

The Northern Echo understands that a South Yorkshire consortium is ready to buy out current owners Increased Oil Recovery. Boxing promoter Dennis Hobson - who looks after Darlington's former world boxing champion Stuart Hall - is believed to be part of the group.

An offical announcement could come later today.

IOR, an Aberdeen-based business, have been in charge since buying out former chairman and owner Harold Hornsey in 1997, but have become under increasing pressure from supporters in recent weeks and months.

It is understood that staff at Victoria Park have already been informed of impending events.

Pools are currently bottom of the Football League and without a manager after sacking Paul Murray, who was in charge for only 44 days.

Ronnie Moore, odds-on favourite for the manager's post, is still likely to be appointed boss.