Done deal: Portsmouth secure first signing of transfer window as former Birmingham City midfielder Odin Bailey joins for free

Pompey have secured their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The Blues have confirmed the arrival of midfielder Odin Bailey, who moves to Fratton Park on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract at League One Stockport County.

The 26-year-old has signed a three-year deal with Pompey and will help bolster John Mousinho’s midfield options ahead of the club’s third season in the Championship.

Bailey, who worked under Blues sporting director Rich Hughes at Forest Green Rovers earlier in his career, spent the past three seasons with the Hatters, helping them win the League Two title in 2024, and playing a key role in the Edgeley Park side’s third place-finish in last term’s League One.

The former Birmingham City youngster also started the 2026 League One play-off final for Stockport but found hmself on the losing side as Bolton Wanderers booked their place in this season’s Championship thanks to a 4-1 victory.

That game at Wembley proved to be Bailey’s last game for the club, with the attack-minded midfielder leaving after 140 appearances and 12 goals.

It’s understood that Pompey beat the likes of Sheffield Wednesday and Lincoln City to Bailey’s signature.

He will now compete with Ebou Adams, Marlon Park and Luke Le Roux for a place in the Fratton Park’s side’s midfield, with the impending arrival of Estonia international Rocco Shein also set to increase competition for places.

Blues fans could get their first glimpse of him in action when Pompey kick-off their pre-season friendly schedule with a trip to non-league Woking on July 14.

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