Aouchiche transfer to collapse despite passing Portsmouth medical
Portsmouth have hit a massive obstacle in their attempt to sign Sunderland midfielder Adil Aouchiche, according to Santi Aouna.
The Foot Mercato journalist posted on X (31 January) the potentially crushing news for Pompey and their supporters, that the 22-year-old has passed a medical but does not have the required number of GBE (Governing Body Endorsement) points (15) to complete the deal.
Despite transferring from another English club, Frenchman Aouchiche is unable to gather a work permit due to these GBE points, which can be based on factors such as playing time, previous league quality and international appearances.
As it stands, the deal looks set to collapse and Aouchiche may be forced to remain on Wearside, as he attempts to find Championship minutes at Fratton Park.
Aouna posted: “Adil Aouchiche deal in Portsmouth is, for the moment, completely blocked.
“Medical tests already done, but the midfielder doesn’t have the requisite GBE points (15). He would take up an ESC spot which Portsmouth don’t have.”
Portsmouth continue to be very busy in the market regarding both incomings and outgoings.
Portsmouth hit a snag in Aouchiche deal
Should the deal between Portsmouth and Sunderland fall through for Aouchiche, it would be a shame for all parties.
For Pompey, the chance to bolster the options of the front four is palpable as John Mousinho aims to bring in a young and eager player, looking to prove he is capable at Championship level on a consistent basis.
For Sunderland, the French-Algerian would be gaining far more minutes on the South Coast than he would with Regis Le Bris’ side, with an initial loan deal set to be the type of transfer lined up until the end of the season before reassessing what to do with the player.
Aouchiche himself would be getting the minutes of which he has largely been deprived this campaign, only recently being welcomed back into the first-team squad and spending much of his time cast aside to the Under-21s at the Stadium of Light. He would also be closer to his native France and his family.
While it now looks unlikely the clubs can arrange to complete the deal – each club can allocate a maximum of four ESC spots to players who would not otherwise qualify for a work permit – Pompey will remain hopeful.
In other Portsmouth news, Mousinho has a dilemma to deal with ahead of the hosting of Burnley.
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