Pompey are in need of reinforcing as they head into the Championship next season.
Their decision to part ways with six first-team squad members at the end of last term made sure of that. Although, the need to strengthen their lot naturally is a requirement as the Blues make the step up to the second tier of English football.
There’s been plenty of transfer speculation doing the rounds ever since John Mousinho’s Blues lifted the League One title. But as is always the case, some of the rumours will prove wholly incorrect, while others will stand up to closer inspection.
Neverthless, at this moment in time, there’s nothing in terms of actual signings as the Fratton Park club wait until the transfer window officially opens next week before revealing anything they’ve been working on.
Understandably, work is going on behind the scenes as sporting director Rich Hughes looks to fill the gaps in the Pompey squad. But what exactly are the Blues’ priorities this summer and who should be coming under their radar?
Well, we’ve enlisted the help of PFSA Level 2 technical scout & performance analyst, plus social media influencer and Pompey fan, @SonStats to find out. Here’s his recommendations for the 11 roles the Blues need to fill before the transfer window closes at 11pm on August 30.
17. Aidan Fitzpatrick - Partick Thistle
Position: Rotational/back-up left-winger. Verdict: If Shola Shoretire was one of the more left-field suggestions, then this one acts as a rival. Aidan Fitzpatrick has had a breakthrough season in the Scottish Championship registering eight goals and four assists. Who knows if the club could be willing to take a punt on the 23-year old who’s only taste of English football came with the Norwich academy. Estimated cost: £250k - £350k | Getty Images
18. Phoenix Patterson - Fleetwood Town
Position: Rotational/back-up left-winger. Verdict: This is a player you will have heard of before but now could be the time to sign Phoenix Patterson. He’s comfortable using both feet, which makes him unpredictable and hard to read. Being able to either cut inside with his right or go past the opposition full-back taking a touch with his left, he registered three goals and four assists during the 2023-24 season with an xA of 8.82 and 6.47 attacking actions per 90. Patterson’s versatility means he was often deployed as a left wing-back - so he could prove to be very useful in defensive situations as a result. He’s aware of actions happening around him and has a good defensive duel success rate with 65.94% across the 2023-24 season. He can often get outmuscled so could perhaps look to work on his upper-body strength, but at 23 years of age, he’s a player who could be worth taking on with one year remaining on his contract and developing for the future. Estimated cost: £100k - £200k. | Getty Images
19. Ethan Ingram - West Brom
Position: Back-up right-back. Verdict: The defender spent the 2023-24 season on loan at League Two side Salford. Despite the Baggies offering him a new contract, this could be a good opportunity to land the 21-year old on a free transfer as the club look to develop young players. Estimated cost: Loan, offered new WBA contrct. | Getty Images
20. Reuell Walters - Arsenal
Position: Back-up right-back. Verdict: Set to leave Arsenal as a free agent after turning down a new deal, Reuell Walters fits the club’s transfer strategy of signing young and hungry players. The 19-year old can play at right-back as well as a right-sided centre-back and also has limited experience playing as a right wing-back. Available on a free transfer, this feels like a possible no-brainer as Walters could act as an understudy to Kioso for the time being. Estimated cost: Out of contract. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images