Another Pompey reshuffle is on the cards at Fratton Park this summer following the Blues’ promotion back to the Championship.
The League One champions will be keen to bolster their ranks as they move up another level and look to cement their place in English football’s second tier. John Mousinho and sporing director Rich Hughes will also be looking to replenish their ranks with greater quality after saying goodbye to 10 out-of-contract players upon the conclusion of their memorable 2023-24 campaign.
That has seen a host of names linked with a move to Fratton Park well before the official transfer window opens next month. Indeed, 13 players to date have been associated with making the south coast their home from the start of next season - and that’s a number that will definitely increase as the summer progresses.
But who are those currently at the centre of Pompey transfer rumours? And what’s the chances of them actually making the move to Fratton Park? Here, we examine each case individually and provide an insight into each potential transfer.
9. Marc Leonard - Brighton (on loan at Northampton)
The 22-year-old midfielder is a player Pompey have been consistently linked with over the past few months. However, The News understands the Blues have reservations about the Scot’s suitability to step up to the Championship at this stage of his career. A move looks less likely in the wake of Pompey's League One title victory. It's pretty certain, though, the young Brighton midfielder won't be plying his trade with the Cobblers next season. | Getty Images
10. Michael Craig - Reading
This link appeared this week, with the Blues reportedly plotting a summer raid for Reading's Scotland under-21 international. After 36 appearances for the Royals this season, the midfielder's stock is clearly on the rise. Yet, it's doubtful he continue that trajectory at Fratton Park. | Getty Images
11. Reece Cole - Exeter
Pompey have been linked with a move for the 26-year-old Exeter midfielder, who has just completed a decent season at St James Park. Bolton and Championship outfit Preston North End have also been touted with interest in the former Brentford man, who made 41 appearances for the Grecians this term. But The News understands the Exeter ace is not someone they have in their sights ahead of a busy summer of transfer activity. | Getty Images
12. Chris Conn-Clarke - Altrincham
After 23 goals for National League Altrincham this season, it's been reported that Northern Ireland under-21 international Chris Conn-Clarke is on Pompey's radar. If true, the Blues will face competition from Ipswich, Mansfield and Peterborough for the frontman, who is expected to leave the Robins this summer. The player's profile sits nicely with what Pompey have been recruiting under Rich Hughes. However, the quality of player who sits within that profile just got higher after the Blues' promotion back to the Championship. | Getty Images