Former Carlisle United captain Sam Lavelle has joined the Blues' National League rivals Hartlepool United.
The 30-year-old defender has joined the north east outfit on an initial 28-day loan.
Lavelle joins a Pools squad sitting 20th in the National League under new boss Pete Wild.
The ex-Blues man hopes to get first-team football with the Monkey Hangers having made only one appearance, in the EFL Trophy, for his parent club so far this season.
✍️ Hartlepool United is delighted to announce the signing of defender Sam Lavelle on a short-term deal, subject to approval. Welcome to Pools, Sam! 🙌 https://t.co/an21GSRY81
— Hartlepool United FC (@Official_HUFC) October 13, 2026
“I’m delighted to be here, and I’m excited to represent such a big club with a massive fan base for this level," Lavelle told Hartlepool's website.
“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 [at Forest Green Rovers, and since meeting and training with the team, I believe the club has turned a corner.”
Head coach Wild added: “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 back line.
“He’s a great character, and he arrives with a point to prove. I’m looking forward to working with him.”
Former Morecambe and Charlton Athletic defender Lavelle was on Carlisle's books from 2023 to 2025, making 89 appearances and scoring seven goals.
He was released in 2025 after United's relegation from the EFL. Since joining Grimsby that summer, he has made 13 appearances in an injury-hit spell.
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