The names were coming thick and fast, even before the Championship season ended.
And the flow of touted Pompey targets never let up from there, until the window closed on September 1.
We’ve pulled together a list of the players linked with the Blues, a little insight into their credibility and an update on what is now happening with those men - with some wildly varying results.
21. Armando Dobra
Former Ipswich man has impressed with Chesterfield and was linked with Pompey toward the window's finale. Speculation was wide of the mark, though, and is still with the Spireites - returning four goals and two assists so far. Photo: Brian Eyre
22. Krystian Bielik
Powerful Polish defender was on Pompey's hit-list but wanted to stay in the Midlands - so chose to move from Birmingham City to West Brom. | Getty Images
23. Harvey Knibbs
Another perennial Pompey-linked name whose £1.8m move to Charlton was on the brink of collapse before an agreement was reached. Scored one goal in 10 outings for the Addicks. | Getty Images