Sunderland striker linked with Huddersfield Town, Southampton, Colchester United and Carlisle

HUDDERSFIELD Town have been linked with a move for former Sunderland striker Roy O'Donovan.

The 24-year-old scored nine in 15 games while on loan at Hartlepool last season and it's believed Pools are keen to have him back on a permanent deal after Sunderland allowed him to leave.

Southampton and Colchester are also believed to be in the hunt for the frontman.

Carlisle United have also been linked with the hitman and the club's managing director John Nixon revealed that a number of clubs, including his own, have already offered a deal to the Irishman.

''It also looks increasingly likely that the Roy O'Donovan move that we have been chasing will not happen. That's despite the fact that we have had a good offer with him for quite some time.

''We believe that he has now been contacted by Charlton, Swindon, Huddersfield and some clubs in the Championship.'' he told Carlisle United's official site.