Sunderland AFC forward Josh Hawkes has completed a permanent transfer to Tranmere Rovers.
The 22-year-old moved to Prenton Park in September and impressed throughout a 17-game loan spell, registering one goal and three assists for the Sky Bet League Two promotion contenders.
Born in Stockton-on-Tees, Hawkes moved to Wearside in 2021 from Hartlepool United and scored his only senior goal in a 2-1 victory over Port Vale earlier this season.
Kristjaan Speakman said: “Josh has worked incredibly hard over the past 18 months to compete for a place within our senior squad before enjoying a successful loan at Tranmere. He turns 23 later this week and the opportunity to move to Prenton Park on a permanent basis and play League Two football regularly is one that we feel is the right step for him. We wish Josh every success for the future.”