Defender Hart joins Vale from Sutton

Sam Hart has made 56 league and cup appearances since joining Sutton from Oldham in 2022

Port Vale have made their fourth summer signing by bringing back defender Sam Hart to Burslem from Sutton United following the London club's relegation to the National League.

The 27-year-old left back has signed a two-year deal to follow the arrivals of Fleetwood striker Jayden Stockley, Stockport County midfielder Ryan Croasdale and AFC Wimbledon winger Ronan Curtis.

Former Liverpool youngster Hart was first at Vale Park on loan in 2016, before he left for Blackburn Rovers in 2017.

He then moved on to Southend United in 2020, following loan stays with Rochdale and Shrewsbury Town.

He joined Sutton on a two-year deal in 2022 at the end of their first season in the English Football League.

The deal will activate on 1 July, subject to EFL and FA approval