James Bolton's impending Portsmouth arrival signals end of key man's Fratton career
![James Bolton. Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images](https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/webimg/legacy_oak_114852571.jpg?crop=3:2,smart&width=640&quality=65&enable=upscale)
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And that move signals the end of Nathan Thompson’s career at Fratton Park.
Reports yesterday emerged that the Shrewsbury right-back is in Kenny Jackett's sights, as he attempts to bolster his squad for next season.
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Hide AdThere now appears to be very few obstacles to a free transfer being finalised.
Bolton will be a powerful addition to the right side of Jackett’s defence, and is a popular figure at New Meadow where he's spent two years.
SEE ALSO: James Bolton's performances compared to Portsmouth duo Nathan Thompson and Anton Walkes last season
The 24-year-old made 81 appearances in that time, and was a key component of the Shrews side which reached the League One play-off final 12 months ago.
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Hide AdBolton’s only goal of that memorable campaign was the decisive strike in his team's 1-0 win at Fratton Park.
![James Bolton. Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images](https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/webimg/legacy_oak_114852571.jpg?crop=3:2,smart&width=640&quality=65)
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With his contract coming to a close, Shrewsbury boss Sam Ricketts was keen to keep the former Stoke trainee.
But it's a move to join Pompey's bid to reach the Championship which appeals - and now appears likely to be sealed.
The way has been cleared for the Bolton move by Thompson not signing a new contract.
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Hide AdThe 28-year-old’s two-year stay at the club will now come to an end after failing to agree a new deal.
![New signing James Bolton.](https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/webimg/legacy_oak_114862336.jpg?crop=3:2,smart&width=640&quality=65)
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Thompson has been one of the key components of Jackett’s side, making 78 appearances for the club.
He became the first signing of his manager's time at Pompey, when a move instigated by Paul Cook was seen to a conclusion.
Despite some injury problems, the former Swindon man's reputation has grown - particularly over the last campaign.
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Hide AdThompson established himself as one of the key components of Jackett’s team in that time - culminating in his only goal for Pompey coming in the Checkatrade Trophy win over Sunderland at Wembley.
With Premier League Brighton favourites to seal a deal for Matt Clarke, it means a new-look Pompey defence is in the offing for the new campaign.
Talks are ongoing with the Seagulls over the Blues’ prized asset moving along the south coast.