The prospect of defender Michael Nelson joining Norwich City appeared to move a step closer today after he confirmed he was quitting Hartlepool. The 29-year-old centre-half has been linked with the Canaries since the end of last season, and is reported to be keen to team up again with assistant manager Ian Butterworth, the former number two at Victoria Park.

The prospect of defender Michael Nelson joining Norwich City appeared to move a step closer today after he confirmed he was quitting Hartlepool.

The 29-year-old centre-half has been linked with the Canaries since the end of last season, and is reported to be keen to team up again with assistant manager Ian Butterworth, the former number two at Victoria Park.

Hartlepool director of sport Chris Turner revealed yesterday that Nelson had rejected the contract offer made to him and will not be re-signing for next season, which suggests he is confident of securing a move sooner rather than later.

“I am disappointed that Michael has chosen to leave the club but I can understand his decision,” said Turner.

“This could be a big time for him to move on and he'll leave the football club with our best wishes after giving us six good years of service.

“While I am disappointed, we have to move on now and look to the future and hopefully we can have successful times ahead despite the loss of Michael Nelson.”

Nelson joined Hartlepool in June 2003 and has been a virtual ever-present during his six years with the club, making 306 appearances in all competitions, scoring 16 goals. He has captained the side regularly. City may face competition, however, from Scunthorpe, back in the Championship after winning the League One play-off final, and Huddersfield, managed by Lee Clark, former assistant boss at Carrow Road.