Tranmere have made a further addition to their growing squad after announcing the signing of Sunderland midfielder Josh Hawkes on loan until the end of the season, following FA and EFL approval. 

The deal was completed late last night but the club was unable to reveal the deal until confirmation had been recieved from both parties.

Hawkes is a 22-year-old winger/attacking midfielder who can play centrally or in a wide role. He impressed in Sunderland’s U23 side last season, with 13 goals in 19 starts. 

After a promising pre-season with Sunderland’s first team, he scored his first senior goal for the Black Cats during a 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Port Vale. 

Speaking about the deal, Rovers manager Micky Mellon said “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.”

Hawkes is the fifth player to join Tranmere this week, after Mellon moved to bolster his options as the club embarks on a new campaign.