It will all be somewhat simpler if he is not on Hartlepool's retained list i.e. he is released.
I think Tony's 2 weeks timetable for Porter to make a decision is fair enough - for both the Nix and Porter. Hartlepool's retained list (players they will offer a new contract to) is due out any day. If Porter is on it then fair enough he has reasonable time to make a decision on which offer he will accept.
It will all be somewhat simpler if he is not on Hartlepool's retained list i.e. he is released.