Cumbrian Premier League prospect Joe White could make a League Two move before the transfer deadline, according to reports.

The Newcastle United midfielder is being linked with a return to one of Carlisle United's rivals.

Hartlepool United, where White had a loan spell last season, are reportedly looking into the possibility of another move for the England youth international.

The Hartlepool Mail say Pools boss Paul Hartley is exploring the chances of bringing the Carlisle-born player back to Victoria Park.

White, 19, has just returned to action for Newcastle's Under-21 side after injury.

He got 45 minutes in their 4-0 win over Derby County on Friday night.

After the game, coach Elliott Dickman told ChronicleLive: "He [White] has been struggling with a little injury, but he's back now and fully fit. He's had a good number days of training, and he's looked really good.

"I think the 45 minutes he's had today will help him.

"If he's here, we will be working with him. If he's not and he's going on loan, then somebody will inform me if that's the case. I think for him, if he does manage to go out on loan, I think it will benefit him as he was out last season.

"From what I've seen in the short space of time since his return from injury, he's ready for that next challenge."

White - grandson of the late former Carlisle player, coach and physio and Workington Reds manager Peter Hampton - made 16 appearances for Hartlepool last season after making a half-season loan move in January.

Toon boss Eddie Howe last season said he had been "very impressed" with White's progress. He signed a new three-year contract at St James' Park in March.

A move back to Hartlepool before Thursday night's summer transfer deadline would boost a side who are struggling after picking up just two points from their first six games of the League Two season.

They face Carlisle at the Suit Direct Stadium on October 8.