Portsmouth ‘can sign Sam Byram now’ after Leeds United promotion
Portsmouth have secured their Championship status and can now turn their attention to the summer transfer window.
Pompey achieved second-tier survival with two games remaining, thanks to back-to-back wins over Norwich and Watford over the Easter weekend.
The Blues showed their attacking prowess when they beat Norwich 5-3 on 18 April, before claiming their 11th home win of the season with their victory over Watford.
But John Mousinho’s men will be determined to maintain their positive momentum with a win over Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.
Portsmouth should look to sign Leeds defender Sam Byram
The Fratton Park faithful will be proud that their side has guaranteed their Championship survival with two games left to spare.
But to further stabilise in the second tier next term, Pompey will need to oversee a successful summer transfer window.
With that in mind, Leeds defender Sam Byram could be a strong signing for the Blues, with bags of Championship experience.
| Sam Byram stats | Championship 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Starts | 15 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
The 31-year-old has made just 15 starts for the Whites in the second tier this term, so Daniel Farke’s men will likely cut ties this summer with his contract expiring at Elland Road.
Byram boasts significantly more experience at Championship level than Connor Ogilvie, while Cohen Bramall is currently set to leave Portsmouth at the end of the season when his deal expires.
Portsmouth will look to enjoy a strong end to the season
Pompey have successfully achieved their goal of surviving in the Championship at the end of their first season at second-tier level since 2011/12.
But as Mousinho’s men look ahead to the summer transfer window and next season, they will hope to enjoy a positive end to the campaign.
Portsmouth have done well to win both of their last two games, but they have a major opportunity to end the season with four consecutive victories.
On Saturday, Pompey take on a Sheffield Wednesday outfit who have no relegation worries and can no longer land a playoff spot, before hosting Hull on the last day of the campaign on 3 May.
Hull are yet to secure survival, so Mousinho’s side should fancy their chances of getting the better of Ruben Selles’ men.
If Portsmouth can further climb the Championship table before the end of the term, the squad will be full of confidence heading into next campaign.
Byram could be the perfect first new signing, with his experience more on promotion than relegation.