Pompey are keen to find a solution to their defensive midfield concerns before the close of the transfer window

Pompey have reportedly turned to Championship rivals Wolves to help solve their defensive midfield issues.

According to transfer guru Alan Nixon, via his Patreon account, the Blues have enquired about Mali international Boubacar Traore, who has been told he is free to Molineux.

The 25-year-old has returned to the Old Gold after spending last season on loan at former club Metz in Ligue 1.

Traore featured three times for new manager Cesar Peixoto in pre-season but was omitted from Wolves’ squad for their final warm-up game ahead the new campaign against Racing Santander.

He’s also been left out the match-day 20 for Wolves’ first two games of the season against Port Vale (Carabao Cup) and Blackburn respectively after being given permission to find a new club.

Spanish side Racing have joined Pompey in being linked with a player who cost Wolves £11m just three years ago.

Both clubs are reportedly interested in a loan move for Traore, who is in the final year of his contract.

However, Wolves would apparently prefer the midfielder to leave on a permanent basis so that they can recoup some of the money they paid Metz in 2023.

Pompey need to strengthen their No6 options after missing out on two of their main targets in that position this summer.

The Blues were unable to get a deal for Voldenam midfielder Gibson Yah over the line, with the former Ajax player instead moving to Championship rivals Bristol City.

Meanwhile, last week, Pompey had to abandon plans to sign Jesper Ceesay from Turkish second-tier side Antalyaspor following their failure to secure a work permit for the Swedish-born Gambia international, who had agreed a €800,000 move with add-ons to PO4.

Rocco Shein was partnered with Ebou Adams in the centre of the Blues’ midfield for their league opener against QPR on Saturday. However, the duo were unable to prevent QPR winning 3-1 at Fratton Park on what proved to be a disappointing day for the hosts.

Pompey could call upon Marlon Pack for Saturday’s trip to Lincoln, after the 35-year-old returned to full training this week following knee surgery.

Luke Le Roux also remains an option for Mousinho but, like Traore, he has been told he is also free to find new employers before the close of the transfer window.

Traore joined Wolves on loan initially in the summer of 2022.

His stay was made permanent in 2023 for £11m following 11 first-team appearances, including 10 in the Premier League, that season.

The 2023-24 season saw the midfielder feature 24 times in the top flight.

Yet last season he was allowed to return on loan to Metz by then manager Vitor Pereira.

Flashscore currently values Traore at €3.7m.

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