The Blues have identified the middle of the park needs strengthening after the poor start to the League One campaign.
Kenny Jackett's not satisfied how Tom Naylor and Bryn Morris have looked as a pair so far and instead looking for a fresh face.
Work’s presently going on behind the scenes to find that player as Pompey look to finally light the touchpaper to their campaign.
The Blues were linked with ex-Aston Villa man Jake Doyle-Hayes earlier this week.
But we’ve taken a look at some of the other engine-room operators who could potentially fit the bill...
5. Jake Taylor - Nottingham Forest
The former Manchester United youth player had a fine season on loan at Port Vale last season, scoring seven goals in 25 matches. Moving to League One would be right stepping stone and he's left-footed, which Pompey don't currently have in the engine room. Photo: Pete Norton
6. Max Sanders - Brighton
Was part of the Brighton side that beat Pompey 4-0 in the Carabao Cup. Sanders netted once in 20 games at AFC Wimbledon in League One last term. A move to Pompey would be a step in the right direction. Photo: PAUL ELLIS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
7. Herbie Kane - Liverpool
No doubt a name who'd excite. Kane was superb on loan at Doncaster in 2018-19, being named in the League One Team of the Season. Things didn't quite go his way at Hull in the Championship last term, though. Pompey have been keen on the England youth international previously, although he's presently sidelined with a hamstring problem. Photo: Shaun Botterill
8. Matt Smith - Manchester City
The 20-year-old struggled for minutes on loan at QPR and Charlton in the Championship last season. However, he could have more success dropping to League One and has eight senior caps for Wales. Also wouldn't count towards the salary cap. Photo: Michael Regan