Portsmouth eye deal for star in making who could be next Jamie Vardy
Portsmouth are intent on enjoying a successful summer transfer window after retaining their Championship status.
John Mousinho’s men successfully steered themselves to 16th place in the second tier, ultimately finishing five points clear of the relegation zone.
The Fratton Park side will hope for an even better campaign next term, while Mousinho already has one eye on the transfer window.
Portsmouth recruited well last summer, as the likes of Freddie Potts and Josh Murphy proved vital to their Championship survival.
Portsmouth join race for National League star
Mousinho’s Pompey exploits have not gone unnoticed, as he has entered the frame for the managerial vacancy at Norwich City, but the Blues will hope to retain his services.
Meanwhile, according to EFL Analysis [11 May], Portsmouth have set their sights on a move for Sutton United defender Jack Taylor.
| Opponent | Result |
| Watford (H) | 1-0 W |
| Sheffield Wednesday (A) | 1-1 D |
| Hull (H) | 1-1 D |
The report adds that Taylor has also attracted interest from Championship rivals Bristol City and Millwall, as well as Premier League trio Tottenham, West Ham and Brentford.
While the 20-year-old is a defender, the report suggests he could follow in the footsteps of former England striker Jamie Vardy, who fast-tracked his way from non-league to the Premier League in no time.
Taylor could be a good signing for Portsmouth
Sutton have endured a somewhat disappointing National League campaign, finishing just 12th in the fifth tier after spending the last three seasons in League Two.
But Taylor has been a shining light for the South London club, having attracted transfer interest from the likes of Tottenham and West Ham.
If Portsmouth can successfully fend off such high-profile suitors in the transfer window and obtain Taylor’s signature, the 20-year-old could prove to be a solid signing.
The centre-back made two appearances for Sutton in the 2023/24 League Two season, while he spent time in Watford’s youth academy before playing for the likes of Hampton & Richmond and Bishop’s Stortford in Non-League.
Non-League has provided some notable talent in recent years, such as the aforementioned Vardy, while Jarrod Bowen played for Hereford before later joining Hull and then West Ham.
If Mousinho and Co. acquire Taylor’s services, they could have their hands on a gem ahead of next season.