Confirmed: Josh Hawkes departs Sunderland on loan to join League Two outfit Tranmere Rovers

It’s a late one, but the deal for Josh Hawkes to join Tranmere on loan has finally been confirmed.

Rumours surrounding the deal circulated late on deadline day, and two days later it has finally been confirmed that the move has gone through.

The forward arrived last year from Hartlepool United and lit up the U23s side, scoring and assisting more than any other player.

Despite this, he’s found opportunities limited in the first team this season, and as such has left in a bid to gain meaningful minutes in a proper side.

Speaking to SAFC.com, Sporting Director Kristjaan Speakman explained the club’s reasoning behind sanctioning the move:

This is a great opportunity for Josh in League Two and it demonstrates his progress to date. This is the natural next step for him after Under-23 football, and we will monitor his development very closely.

Tranmere have said in their club statement that the deal was done on Tuesday, but was pending approval from the authorities:

The deal was completed late on Tuesday night but we were awaiting confirmation from both parties, which has now been received.

Tranmere boss Micky Mellon is delighted that the deal is finally done:

The only area of the squad where I felt we were still light was on the left side, and we all know that Tranmere fans like a pacy winger. I’m really pleased that Sunderland have allowed Josh to come and get some first team experience with us.

Good luck, Josh!