The names started as a trickle and became a torrent.
A huge swathe of ‘targets’ were touted to arrive at Fratton Park amid increased summer spending at PO4.
Some of those who emerged were credible, while others which surfaced perhaps less so. But what became of those names rumoured to join Pompey who didn’t become done deals?
5. Ibrahim Buhari
The Nigerian central defender ended up signing for Austria Vienna as a free agent on a three-year deal, after leaving Swedish side Elfsborg. | Getty Images
6. Jack Diamond
Not a name which really stacked up with Diamond remaining with Stockport, where he's started impressively with four goals from eight games.
7. Josh Key
Started the season well for high-flying Swansea City, but is now facing a potentially lengthy injury lay-off with a thigh issue. | Barrington Coombs/PA Wire
8. Robinho Jr
Slightly unusual link, the son of Brazilian star Robinho moved from Santos to Italian side Genoa where he's played a couple of under-20 games. | Getty Images