Pompey are in need of reinforcing as they head into the Championship next season.
Their decision to part ways with six first-team squad members at the end of last term made sure of that. Although, the need to strengthen their lot naturally is a requirement as the Blues make the step up to the second tier of English football.
There’s been plenty of transfer speculation doing the rounds ever since John Mousinho’s Blues lifted the League One title. But as is always the case, some of the rumours will prove wholly incorrect, while others will stand up to closer inspection.
Neverthless, at this moment in time, there’s nothing in terms of actual signings as the Fratton Park club wait until the transfer window officially opens next week before revealing anything they’ve been working on.
Understandably, work is going on behind the scenes as sporting director Rich Hughes looks to fill the gaps in the Pompey squad. But what exactly are the Blues’ priorities this summer and who should be coming under their radar?
Well, we’ve enlisted the help of PFSA Level 2 technical scout & performance analyst, plus social media influencer and Pompey fan, @SonStats to find out. Here’s his recommendations for the 11 roles the Blues need to fill before the transfer window closes at 11pm on August 30.
1. From left: John McAtee, Peter Kioso, Luke Chambers and Micah Hamilton
From left: John McAtee, Peter Kioso, Luke Chambers and Micah Hamilton | National World
2. Max Stryjek - Wycombe
Position: Back-up goalkeeper Verdict: Max Stryjek spent the last month of the 2023/24 season on an emergency loan at Crewe, including playing his part in their play-off second-leg victory against Doncaster, where he saved two penalties. He’s been released by parent club Wycombe so could be a viable option to provide strong competition to Will Norris. Estimated cost: Out of contract | Getty Images
3. Louie Moulden - Wolves
Position: Back-up goalkeeper. Verdict: Louie Moulden could be the ideal signing for this position. I’d rather we recruit a player who can provide the competition Will Norris needs but also a player who can be developed and become the future №1. The 22-year old spent the first half of the 2023/24 season at National League outfit Rochdale where he registered four assists before spending the second half of the season at Northampton. Long-range distribution is his stand-out quality, with his decision making & technique to pick out attacking runs in behind the defence a key strength. He is a decent goalkeeper too, often assuring when claiming crosses & a strong shot-stopper. This signing is mainly for the long-term but Moulden is still capable in my opinion of competing with Norris from the start. Estimated cost: Out of contract | Getty Images
4. Jordan Williams - Barnsley
Position: Starting right-back. Verdict: A free agent after his Barnsley departure, Jordan Williams is a player who still has potential to grow. The 24-year-old former Tykes captain is also capable of playing across the back three or further forward as a wing-back. Estimated cost: Out of contract. | Getty Images