Championship duo exploring move for former Portsmouth keeper as Birmingham City eye in-demand Leeds United man
The latest transfer headlines involving Pompey’s Championship rivals.
Transfer activity continues to ramp up at Fratton Park, with the new season just days away.
John Mousinho’s men kick start the new campaign with a trip to West Ham in the Carabao Cup this Saturday before their Championship curtain raider on August 15.
There’s plenty of business to be done in the meantime as John Mousinho primes his squad, with incomings and outgoings on the cards.
Ibane Bowat, however, is closing in on his Fratton Park exit, bringing an end to a frustrating two-year stay.
Mousinho explained the reason behind the defender’s absence Saturday’s draw with Darmstadt was due to his imminent departure.
Elsewhere, gossip and speculation continues to do the rounds across the division with the new season now in sight.
Here are the latest transfer headlines involving the Blues’ Championship rivals.
Asmir Begovic on Championship radar
Former Pompey goalkeeper Asmir Begovic reportedly has Championship admirers this summer.
The keeper was released by Leicester City following the conclusion of his one-year deal, which saw him register 12 appearances in all competitions.
The Foxes opted against handing the 39-year-old fresh terms to remain at the King Power Stadium following their relegation to League One.
According to journalist Darren Witcoop, Sheffield United and Bolton Wanderers are both exploring a deal to recruit Begovic this summer.
The report states the second-tier duo are both interested in securing the experienced keeper on a free transfer.
It is believed the 63-capped Bosnia international is weighing up his next move, with the Championship expected to be his next destination.
Begovic rose through the ranks at Fratton Park and went on to amass 17 first-team appearances following his 2006 debut.
He went on to depart PO4 in February 2010 joining Stoke City in a £3.25m deal before enjoying spells with Chelsea, Bournemouth, Qarabag, AC Milan, Everton, QPR and Leicester.
Birmingham City join Leeds United chase
Birmingham City are interested in signing out-of-favour Leeds United attacker Joe Gelhardt, according to reports.
BBC Radio Humberside’s Hull City reporter Mike White has claimed Chris Davies’ side have identified the versatile forward as a potential transfer target this summer.
The 24-year-old, who remains out of the picture at Elland Road having been left out of their pre-season tour in the USA, enjoyed a brilliant campaign on loan with Hull City last term, netting 15 goals and providing five assists.
The Tigers are also keen to reunite with Gelhardt in the window following their Premier League promotion, but face competition from several clubs - including ambitious Birmingham.
Davies’ side finished 10th on the return to the Championship last term and picked up a final-day draw at Fratton Park in May.