Hartlepool’s Luke Molyneux, Swansea’s Morgan Whittaker and Oxford United’s Alex Gorrin are the latest names to be added to the growing Blues’ list of potential acquisitions in the window.
Yet, there is still the issue of contracts to sort out, with Sean Raggett, Aiden O’Brien and Michael Jacobs’ Fratton Park futures uncertain, while Marcus Harness and Louis Thompson have had their contracts extended.
With names including Matt Butcher, Will Boyle and Aaron Collins also claimed to be on Danny Cowley’s radar, how would the Blues line-up if the rumours were true?
We’ve taken a look at the potential starting XI Pompey could use in the first game of the season should they sign those linked names.
Here’s how they could line-up.
5. RWB: Lynden Gooch
The Sunderland star’s versatility would open the door to be utilised as a right-wing back with his defensive and attacking qualities. This season has seen the American drop to a more defensive role and he could be seen as the ideal man for Cowley, with his ability to play at right-back should the Blues boss opt to use a back four also an attractive possibility. Photo: George Wood
6. CM: Joe Morrell
After making the drop from the Championship last summer, Morrell was a consistent performer for Cowley, proving to be a real gem in the midfield. The Welsh international was able to show his quality alongside a more defensive-minded midfielder and could flourish alongside Matt Butcher in the centre of the park. Photo: Jason Brown
7. CM: Matt Butcher
The Portsmouth-born midfielder failed to agree fresh terms at Accrington and is now a free agent. He had a strong season at the Wham Stadium, scoring four times in 36 appearances, which caught the eye of Cowley once again. With the Blues boss a known admirer, the 24-year-old could make a return to the south coast but would face tough competition from Louis Thompson and Ryan Tunnicliffe for a place in the starting XI. Photo: Alex Burstow
8. LWB: Denver Hume
Following his January switch, Hume never really got going, failing to show the Fratton faithful what he was capable of in the early knockings of his Pompey career. With limited game time and an injury set-back, Cowley has been able to develop the 23-year-old on the training ground and in his more natural left-wing back position will flourish on the south coast next term. Photo: Malcolm Bryce