Portsmouth target FC Zurich winger as January transfer window hunt accelerates
A new January transfer window target has emerged this evening, with the Swiss Super League winger eyed.
Pompey have FC Zurich winger Jahnoah Markelo on their January transfer hit-list.
The News understands the flying winger has been identified as a target to add pace and power to the Blues’ bid for Championship survival.
Jahnoah Markelo on Pompey’s attacking list in January
But they are going to need to find the resources to tempt the 22-year-old’s Swiss side to part company with the exciting right-sided operator. And the club’s willingness to do so, looks set to ultimately decide whether their admiration for the left-footer will materialise into a concrete move in the January transfer window.
Pompey are pushing ahead with their transfer plans in what is set to be a critical period for their Championship survival hopes.
The right flank is set to be a key area of focus, with the club’s recruitment team assembling a short-list of potential additions who can strengthen John Mousinho’s squad.
Markelo falls into that group, with the Dutch-born Suriname man making waves in the Swiss Super League over the past couple of years with his emergence.
The former Ajax academy youngster has two goals and three assists from 15 outings this term, with that number supplemented by five goals and as many assists last season.
Markelo is tied down on a long-term deal at the Stadion Letzigrund, however, signing a contract which runs until the summer of 2030.
And it’s Pompey ability to come up with the kind of offer which will convince Zurich to cash in on the former FC Twente and Go Ahead Eagles man, which holds the key to a move advancing.
Ousmane Sow closing in on Brondby move
The Blues are keen on Gornik Zabrze’s Ousmane Sow, who is another exciting winger identified by their recruitment team.
The Senegal man appears to be headed to Danish outfit Brondby, however, who have always appeared to be in the box seat to secure the 25-year-old after tabling a bid worth £2.6m plus add-ons.
Sow didn’t train with the Polish side today, as he undertook a medical with a view to completing his switch to the Superliga outfit.
Pompey clearly need to bolster their squad in a number of different departments, particularly with injury issues apparent going into Sunday’s FA Cup clash with Arsenal at Fratton Park.
Mousinho isn’t anticipating any business being completed in time for the third round clash with the Premier League leaders, however.
The Blues head coach is hopeful of seeing deals over the line in time for his side to face Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough on January 17, however.
Mousinho has made it clear he expects to see up to six new arrivals before the close of the transfer window at 7pm on February 1.
Pompey have been linked with a move for Dundee defender Luke Graham this month, while Brighton midfielder Andrew Moran was another early transfer window name to emerge.