Of course, the Blues could well plunder Premier League and Championship academies for loan gems to get their final players in before September 1.
But Danny Cowley has hinted there is a deal advanced for a young talent operating at a lower level.
So we’ve looked at some of the hottest prospects from around League Two and the National League who could be interesting Pompey and their rivals.
9. Giovanni McGregor
A central midfielder who can also play down the right, the former Crystal Palace man is now at Dulwich Hamlet where he bagged 13 assists and six goals last term. Photo: Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC
10. James Jones
Nine goals and six assists for the Wrexham midfielder last season, but the Scot may be at the top end of the age bracket Pompey are eyeing at 26. Photo: Jacques Feeney
11. Ephron Mason-Clark
The 22-year-old can play down either flank, is a good age to improve and develop and produces goals and assists, hitting the back of the net 17 times and providing for 12 goals last term in the National League. Photo: Alex Burstow
12. Ollie Cooper
Actually a Swansea player, but Cooper impressed on loan in League Two with Newport County as he returned nine assists last term. Photo: Pete Norton