It felt like barely a day passed without a new name being linked with a switch to Fratton Park.
But how have those who didn’t arrive or moved elsewhere fared since?
Some have failed to make the kind of impact for Pompey fans to feel they’ve missed out, while others have seen their value soar.
Here’s the men who didn’t arrive at PO4 – and what they’ve done since.
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5. Harry Toffolo
One of the more unlikely links of last summer. Danny Cowley knows the player well, but has played 38 times in the Championship for the side sat fourth. Photo: CameraSport - Paul Greenwood
6. Harvey White
A return for the Premier League prospect was an option, but he's stayed at Spurs this term where seven goals and the same amount of assists have arrived from 31 PL2 and EFL Trophy games. Photo: Morgan Harlow
7. Jack Payne
A player who Danny Cowley has signed before when in charge at Lincoln. Payne's suffered relegation with Swindon, but was one of their star players. The ex-Huddersfield man had a clause in his contract which allowed him to leave the Robins after they went down, but he stayed and scored 10 goals in 31 appearances this term. Photo: Gareth Copley
8. Dan Butler
Pompey academy graduate was linked with a return to PO4 but the Isle of Wight lad signed a new Peterborough deal and has made 22 appearances for the Championship strugglers. Photo: Simon Davies