Ex-England international Adam Johnson hopes to join Hartlepool United after his release from jail next year.
The former Manchester City star could resume his playing career in the fifth divison of English football.
The 31-year-old is understood to have turned down an offer to play in the Chinese Super Lig, but chose to remain in England.
Johnson has been linked with Hartlepool whose president is Sky Sports legend Jeff Stelling.
He has been pals with club manager Matthew Bates for years.
An insider said: "Adam has told people that Hartlepool is a likely destination."
Hartlepool play in the National League after relegation from the Football League last year.
The Sunderland winger Johnson was jailed for six years for having carnal knowledge of under age girls in 2016 and assaulted a 15-year-old fan in County Durham.
He is keen to build bridges with his 27-year-old partner Stacey Flounders and his two-year-old daughter Ayla.
He is reportedly on a segregated wing in HMP Moorland, South Yorks as Johnson's earliest release will be in March next year.
According to The Sun Johnson's dad Dave, said he was not aware of any clubs wishing to sign his son.
Hartlepool United said: "It's news to us and we are not aware of any conversations that have been had."
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