BBC reporter shares Portsmouth ‘frustration’ in failed Alex Robertson transfer pursuit
BBC Radio Solent’s Andy Moon has detailed the “frustration” Portsmouth endured in their failed transfer pursuit of Alex Robertson.
Moon detailed the nuances of the deal in his latest BBC Sport column [16 August].
Pompey missed out as Cardiff City went all in on securing the midfielder, who spent last season on loan at Fratton Park.
An incredible talent shown in 23 games before a major hamstring injury, Robertson was a top target for John Mousinho but chose the Bluebirds, whose budget could stretch further and with whom his family have history.
Moon said: “Buying a player from Manchester City isn’t as simple as John Mousinho ringing up Pep Guardiola and discussing a deal. They want the best price they can get and the frustration for Pompey with Robertson is that they overcame that hurdle and had an offer accepted.
“Portsmouth’s owners have always been open to paying fees for notable assets. However, Cardiff also reached City’s asking price meaning it was down to Robertson where he ended up.
“Cardiff’s budget is likely to be higher than Pompey’s so I’d imagine they were offering him more money. Not everything comes down to money, though, and there was hope that the good relationships last season might have drawn the player to the south coast. It was not to be.”
Portsmouth must forget Robertson
As positive a player and character Robertson was, the ship has sailed and Portsmouth have to their credit been quick with further signings.
With nine now through the door, the club are far from finished and are banking on the loan market picking up in the latter stages of the transfer window.
Pompey will need added cover in midfield despite picking up Andre Dozzell, with only Marlon Pack, Owen Moxon and an injured Tom Lowery as other options.
The club know their status in the new market as a Championship club – it’s no longer a case of a bigger fish in a smaller pond, and far more Premier League players could be available on loan and of a higher calibre.
Parachute payment-buoyed clubs will of course have the upper hand, but the recruitment so far on a budget has been realistic and fairly solid.
In other Portsmouth news, the club are starting to reap small benefits from the work on Fratton Park.
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