With the transfer window still six days away, Pompey have already been linked with 17 names ahead of the upcoming market as the Blues boss attempts to assemble a side capable of reaching the Championship.
Although Marlon Pack, Kyle Wootton and Matt Butcher are all names who would currently please the Fratton faithful, it’s a far cry from the signings the club could’ve made when they were a regular Premier League outfit and in the Championship.
Here, we take a look at the best 16 stars who have been close to arriving at PO4 this century.
Have a read through to see what could’ve been.
13. Paulo Wanchope
The deal was worked hard by Peter Storrie during the Alain Perrin era, but the striker ultimately chose Qatar as his next destination. Photo: Tom Shaw
14. Fredrick Kanoute
Harry Redknapp was keen to sign the striker but couldn't get the deal over the line. Photo: CRISTINA QUICLER
15. Michael Carrick
The midfielder had a medical at Fratton Park but Milan Mandaric haggled over the £2.5m asking price. Carrick would go on to sign for Spurs before an £18.6m move to Manchester United. Photo: Alex Livesey
16. Shaun Wright-Phillips
Harry Redknapp was a known admirer of Wright-Phillips and was close to bringing him to Fratton Park on a number of occasions. Photo: Mike Hewitt