Danny Cowley has seen his engine-room options diminish this month following Miguel Azeez’s return to parent club Arsenal following an unsuccessful loan spell.
And with Tunnicliffe now set for a further extended spell on the sidelines, plus the need to tread carefully with Louis Thompson, there appears a need to strengthen a department that looked well stock at the end of 2021.
That has already saw some Blues supporters demand a move for Ben Thompson.
But who else could Pompey move for if head coach Danny Cowley is given the go-ahead to add to the four new arrivals he’s already secured this month?
Click through the list of players who may be poised to leave in the remaining days of the January transfer window.
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13. Leighton Clarkson - Blackburn
The 20-year-old has struggled for match minutes at Ewood Park following his Anfield exit. He's made only seven appearances under Tony Mowbray and the Blackburn boss could sanction a move for the former Liverpool man. Picture: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images Photo: Andrew Powell
14. Liam Thompson - Derby
Pompey could take advantage of Derby's misfortune by swooping for Thompson, who's played a bit-part role this season. Picture: Mark Thompson/Getty Images Photo: Mark Thompson
15. Liam Gibbs - Norwich
The fledgling Canary has grown in prominence in their youth teams this season and has registered five assists in the PL2 Division Two. Picture: ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images Photo: ADRIAN DENNIS
16. Jordan Thompson - Stoke
The Northern Ireland international midfielder could be available due to Stoke's acquisition of Lewis Baker this winter. Picture: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images Photo: Nathan Stirk