Portsmouth want to sign new striker for John Mousinho
Portsmouth will be looking to make some big deals in the summer transfer window after a solid return to the Championship last time out.
Pompey finished 16th in their first second-tier season since 2012, finishing with a run of seven wins in 15 games.
The Fratton Park outfit oversaw 15 new arrivals last year, to go along with 14 new arrivals in 2023, which led to the side winning the League One title.
John Mousinho will be looking to bolster his squad again ahead of the new season, as his side looks to avoid any relegation fears next season.
Mousinho intends to bolster weakened frontline
Mousinho has acknowledged that the focus will be on improving the attack during the transfer window, with players departing and others potentially on the move.
Adil Aouchiche and Kaide Gordon have returned to their parent clubs following their respective loan spells at Fratton Park, while Christian Saydee has been informed he can depart to find regular minutes.
Meanwhile, Paddy Lane has been informed that he needs to have a “massive impact” to prove he has what it takes to compete in the Championship.
Matt Ritchie’s minutes are set to be slashed as he approaches his 36th birthday in September.
As quoted by the The News, Mousinho said: “We need to strengthen across the board there. We’ve lost Adil who’s gone back from his loan and Kaide as well.
“So that is going to open up a bit of space across the front line, so there’s some scope there.”
Pompey striker addition is top priority
Mousinho has already indicated that his top priority for the summer window is a striker.
Kusini Yengi, who struggled upon Pompey’s promotion in an injury-stricken campaign, was released at the end of the season.
Mark O’Mahony returned to Brighton & Hove Albion upon the end of his loan spell after registering just three goals in 13 Championship appearances.
Meanwhile, Dane Elias Sorensen, signed after Colby Bishop’s heart surgery, departed in January following the Englishman’s return in November to get more game time.
If Saydee leaves as expected, Bishop and Callum Lang will be the only recognised senior strikers at the club, with youngster Thomas Waddingham next in the pecking order.
Wingers are also a concern heading into the summer, with only Josh Murphy providing high-level output in the Championship.