Christian Burgess gives pragmatic verdict on Portsmouth contract talks

The fans’ favourite’s current Blues deal is due to expire on June 30.

Kenny Jackett's side were in discussions to extend Burgess’ five-year stay at Fratton Park but they were shelved amid the coronavirus outbreak.

It is unclear when the current season will resume and the 2020-21 campaign will kick off.

There’s also growing belief that player wages will be driven down as clubs seek to cope financially without match-day income.

Meanwhile, clubs will have to take stock of their financial positions before engaging in the next transfer window.

And the precarious climate means Burgess acknowledges why a potential new deal has hit an impasse.

The centre-back said: ‘I think it is up in the air because everybody is waiting – it's impossible isn’t it?

‘Everyone is waiting for some concrete rules for when the season is going to start again.

'There are so many questions about June 30, going into July and what if it goes past there. It’s the unknown and it’s really difficult, I think.

‘It's hard for the clubs to plan (for next season) when they're not sure of the future.

‘They’re the same as us – everyone is waiting to see what the landscape is going to look like before you can start throwing out contracts or whatever.

‘It’s tough for everyone at the minute.’

Burgess is one of eight Pompey players who are out of contract at the end of next month.

Lee Brown, Brett Pitman, Oli Hawkins, Brandon Haunstrup, Luke McGee, Adam May and Matt Casey are in the same situation.

Meanwhile, loanee quartet Ross McCrorie (Rangers) Cameron McGeehan (Barnsley), Sean Raggett) and Steve Seddon (Birmingham) are all contracted at Fratton Park until May 31.