HARTLEPOOL United manager Graeme Lee admits he's already touched based with his former employers about taking Middlesbrough players to the Suit Direct Stadium next month.

Lee, who was formerly in charge of the Under-23's at Boro before his appointment at Pools at the beginning of the month, is firming up his plans for the January transfer window and admits that conversations have already taken place regarding potential incomings.

It's likely that Pools will be eyeing up deals for Boro youngsters and fringe players who will be seeking regularly game time in the lower divisions. The likes of Connor Malley, Stephen Walker and Jeremy Sivi could all be potential candidates for Hartlepool to pursue.

While Lee looks to make good use of his contacts on Teesside, he says Boro aren't the only club he has been talking to.

The 43-year-old said: “I’ve spoke to Middlesbrough regarding certain players, ones I know well.

“It’s not just Middlesbrough, we’ve spoke to many many different clubs in the last two weeks really. It’s about bringing the right ones in.

“I know certain players at Middlesbrough that can impact us but I also know that at an array of different clubs.

“My job is that and staff’s job is to pick the right ones to come in."

Last week, Boro boss Chris Wilder admitted he would offer his support to Hartlepool United during the transfer window if players were to become available for a loan deal or transfer.

He joked to BBC Radio Tees Sport: “How much support do we need to give? I’m not sure if we need to support them other big two clubs!

“We have an obligation as well through pre-season which we will do, we’ve already set our pre-season up, we’re going to be playing the local clubs so I think it’s good for them from a revenue point of view.

“I’m all for supporting the local clubs apart from maybe a couple (Sunderland and Newcastle United)."