Free agents from the Championship have been regulars on the Fratton Park arrivals board each summer transfer window.
And despite a Blues shift in transfer strategy that will see young, up-and-coming players at their core of their recruitment drives, there’s recognition that experienced pros from the second tier can still add worth.
So who could potentially follow the likes of Marlon Pack and Joe Rafferty in swapping the Championship for League One with Pompey next term?
Of course, not all free agents will be within the Blues’ reach, but here’s those second-tier players who will be out of contract come the end of the season.
17. Reading
Scott Dann, Nesta Guinness-Walker (above), Junior Hoilett, Lucas Joao, Shane Long, Amadou Salif Mbengue, Yakou Meite, Liam Moore, Dejan Tetek. Photo: Ryan Pierse
18. Rotherham
Wes Harding, Robbie Hemfrey, Chiedozie Ogbene, Lee Peltier, Josh Vickers (above), Richard Wood. One-year option: Shane Ferguson, Ben Wiles. Photo: Matt McNulty
19. Sheffield United
John Fleck, Wes Foderingham, Kyron Gordon, Oli McBurnie, Oliver Norwood, Jack O'Connell, Ben Osborn, Will Osula, Jack Robinson, Femi Seriki, Billy Sharp, Enda Stevens (above). Photo: Alex Livesey
20. Stoke
Jack Bonham, Sam Clucas, Frank Fielding, Aden Flint, Morgan Fox (above), Phil Jagielka, Nick Powell, Mario Vrancic. Photo: Gareth Copley