Portsmouth ‘already sweat over Josh Murphy future’ after transfer coup
Josh Murphy has been one of the best players at Portsmouth as they fight to survive in the Championship.
John Mousinho is hoping to avoid relegation to League One and could almost pull it off if results go the Hampshire outfit’s way in the final stretch of the season.
Pompey’s loss to Preston North End at Deepdale on 15 March was a big blow to their aspirations, but there are eight games to go in the league to decide everything.
Murphy has been pivotal for Portsmouth with his goal contributions this season as they sit 17th in the league table, four points above 22nd-place Derby County.
Murphy to attract transfer attention after Portsmouth heroics
It wouldn’t be surprising to see teams at the top of the table eyeing Murphy’s signature next summer after what he has done at the Hampshire outfit.
Pompey will arguably have a hard time convincing the 30-year-old to stay if they get relegated to League One.
| Competition (2024/25) | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| Championship | 34 | 6 | 10 |
Even if Mousinho manages to keep Portsmouth in the Championship, moving to a team fighting for Premier League promotion could undoubtedly be tempting for the Englishman.
The likes of Southampton, West Brom and Sunderland were eyeing Murphy last summer before his eventual move to Fratton Park [The Sun].
Fratton Park will fear Murphy transfer interest next summer
Considering the teams interested in the 30-year-old last summer, Portsmouth pulled off somewhat of a coup at Fratton Park.
Colby Bishop’s return at Pompey has been encouraging as well, but Murphy has undoubtedly played a significant role in their success.
Callum Lang has also contributed immensely, giving the Hampshire outfit a cutting edge in the final third over some other teams in the relegation battle.
Once the season ends, Mousinho won’t have much time to rejoice if they survive the drop, as interest in some of the key players at Portsmouth may arise.
Pompey have recruited several players since winning promotion from League One, but not all of them have worked out as well as Murphy.
It won’t be easy to find a replacement for the 30-year-old winger if he does leave next summer, and the Hampshire outfit must do everything in their power to keep him.
Mousinho will arguably be at the risk of fighting a losing battle next season if they end up selling influential members of their squad.