Lawrence to battle Lang, ambitious Bamford move – Portsmouth’s ideal transfer window
Portsmouth guaranteed their Championship survival by clinching a narrow 1-0 win over Watford on Easter Monday.
The result means that the South Coast side can enjoy their remaining two fixtures and plan ahead for the following season.
John Mousinho will no doubt be casting his eye over his squad for the next campaign, intending to strengthen over the summer window.
While Pompey possess a strong core of players, they will need to bolster certain areas if they are to improve on their position.
Tom Lawrence can add Callum Lang competition
Tom Lawrence appears primed to depart Rangers at the end of the season, with his contract set to expire in the summer.
In January, it was reported that several clubs were eyeing a move for the Rangers midfielder, with Wrexham recently credited with an interest.
Callum Lang is Portsmouth’s undisputed choice in the number 10 position and has 10 goals and two assists in the Championship this season.
Competition would be healthy, though, and Lawrence certainly has the experience to heighten the club’s standing.
The 31-year-old has four goals and two assists in the SPFL this season, but has endured a stop-start campaign because of injury.
Ashley Phillips can ease Pompey’s centre-back issues
The centre-back position has been a significant problem for the Hampshire outfit this campaign, with injuries giving Mousinho a major headache.
Portsmouth have been without Ibane Bowat for the entire season due to a knee injury, while Hayden Matthews has been a long-term absentee with an ankle injury.
Several other players have had their issues, meaning it would be wise for the club to fortify their backline with a new signing.
Tottenham Hotspur’s Ashley Phillips would provide an appealing option for Pompey and will likely be available for loan in the summer.
The 19-year-old has spent this season on loan with Stoke City and was tipped to return to Tottenham in January to aid their defensive crisis.
Having made 33 appearances for the Potters this term, the teenager would be a real coup for Mousinho’s side.
| Ashley Phillips’ 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances (starts) | 33 (33) |
| Clean sheets | 9 |
| Clearances | 6.1 |
| Touches per game | 55.1 |
| Accurate passes | 35.9 (84%) |
| Total duels won | 3.7 (56%) |
Patrick Bamford can support Colby Bishop
Colby Bishop has played a pivotal role in helping Portsmouth retain their Championship status, scoring 11 league goals.
Although finding the back of the net has not been an issue for the Hampshire outfit, adding Patrick Bamford would increase their firepower.
The 31-year-old has been an outcast at Leeds United this season, making 15 appearances all from the bench.
With the Whites already promoted to the Premier League, Leeds United ace Bamford will surely exit Elland Road, meaning Pompey should pounce to land his signature.
Despite not having much of a chance to shine this season, the former Chelsea man has bagged 69 Championship goals in his career and still has something to offer.
It promises to be an intriguing summer at Fratton Park as Pompey look to build on their already impressive efforts.