Town are thought to have put in a £1 million offer for Hartlepool attacking midfielder Tommy Miller. The 22-year-old former Town youngster has said he will not be signing a new contract at Hartlepool and wishes play at a higher level. Crewe have also made their interest in the player known.

Hartlepool say that despite discussions Miller has decided not to sign. Their official website says: "Extensive discussions have taken place between the club and Tommy regarding his future. Whilst Tommy is happy to continue playing for the club for the duration of his contract, he has expressed a desire to test his ability by playing at a higher level. Several clubs have been in regular contact with us over the past year or so, and with the player's wishes in mind negotiations with interested parties will take place."

Miller, who recently spent a spell training with Norwegians Brann Bergen, says: "Every player wants to play at the highest level they can, and after two great seasons here, I think that now is the time to test myself at a higher level. I know that other clubs are interested in me, but I would only want to make a move to the right kind of club."

Miller has scored 37 goals in two years for Hartlepool. He was released by the Blues when a 15-year-old playing alongside Kieron Dyer. It was thought that he was too small to make the grade.

If Town do complete the signing of Miller then the Scowcroft deal could go through soon after. With John Hartson committing himself to Coventry there should be little left in the way of Scowcroft joining long-term admirer Peter Taylor at Filbert Street.

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