Salary cap and squad number restrictions, coupled with the crippling costs of coronavirus, meant talks had been initiated with some of the 11 first-team players whose deals expire at the end of the season.
However, there was never any chance of that dialogue becoming more than just that – discussions – with pay cuts the only option realistically presented to players in that stage of negotiations.
The shackles have, of course, come off after an independent arbitration panel upheld a claim from the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) that the EFL was in breach of the constitution of the Professional Football Negotiating and Consultative Committee (PFNCC) by introducing squad salary caps.
That gives Pompey the freedom to re-enter talks at a level in keeping with player expectations.
Although, chief executive Mark Catlin has warned the Blues’ out-of-contract players that wage expectations must still be lowered as football continues to cope with the impact of Covid-19.
That remains a key factor in all negotiations, along with which division Pompey will be operating at come next season. Will manager Kenny Jackett still be around must also be taken into consideration.
It, therefore, means Pompey will continue to tread carefully and not rush into anything.
But where do their priorities lie? Who who will they be targeting first in their bid to resolve futures? And who might be told that no offer will be on the table regardless of finances?
Here, we take a look at each individual’s own situation and rank them in priority for Pompey.
1. Out of contract.jpg
From left: Jack Whatmough, Tom Naylor and Andy Cannon Photo: JPIMEDIA
2. Tom Naylor
Tying Naylor down to a new deal has to be Pompey's top priority - irrespective of what division they might be in next season. It's early days, but he's the leading candidate to be the player of the year, making Jackett's decision to drop him for the play-offs even more unbelievable. Naylor's displays won't have gone unnoticed, though, and the Blues might have competition for his services. Photo: Joe Pepler
3. Jack Whatmough
Whatmough's past two performances won't have done him any favours - two own goals and a red card. But there's no denying the centre-back has been the Blues' most consistent performer this term. His presence will certainly be needed next season if promotion is not achieved, while he'll no doubt be able to step up to the Championship if that goal is achieved. At 24, he's also only going to get even better. Best agree terms now before others come sniffing. Photo: Joe Pepler
4. Craig MacGillivray
Few would dispute Pompey appear in safer hands when the Scot is in goal. He rarely lets the Blues down - and there's no reason why that would change next season. Championship football might enhance competition to be Pompey's No1, though, with Pompey likely to reassess their options to avoid this season's issues. That could tempt the 28-year-old to move on but by acting now that could be avoided. Photo: PinPeP