Hartlepool United is delighted to confirm the signing of defender Sam Lavelle on a short-term deal, subject to approval.

The experienced 30-year-old arrives from League Two side Grimsby Town and has spent his entire senior career in the Football League, accumulating over 300 professional appearances to date.

Born in Blackpool, Lavelle began his career in Blackburn Rovers’ academy, where he spent 12 years before leaving the Ewood Park club in search of regular first-team football.

Morecambe signed the centre-back ahead of the 2017/18 campaign, and he made his debut for the Shrimps in a 2-1 home victory over Cheltenham Town.

During a four-year spell on the Lancashire coast, Lavelle made 165 appearances and captained Morecambe to a 1-0 victory over Newport County in the League Two play-off final, securing the club’s first promotion to the Football League’s third tier in their history.

In 2021, he moved to the capital to join Charlton Athletic, where he settled quickly at The Valley, scoring on his away debut for the Addicks against Wycombe Wanderers.

Lavelle headed north in 2023 to sign for Carlisle United. During a two-season stay, the defender scored seven goals in 89 appearances before completing a switch to Grimsby Town in July 2025.

On joining Pools, Lavelle said: “I’m delighted to be here, and I’m excited to represent such a big club with a massive fan base for this level.

“I’m looking forward to getting started, giving my all and helping the team move in the right direction.

“There were a lot of encouraging signs to take from Saturday’s victory, and since meeting and training with the team, I believe the club has turned a corner.”

Head Coach Pete Wild said: “We are thrilled to complete the signing of Sam; he’s a solid League Two defender, and he’ll provide us with leadership and experience in the backline.

“He’s a great character, and he arrives with a point to prove. I’m looking forward to working with him.”