Mousinho reveals six players that need replacing in Portsmouth transfer update
John Mousinho is set to drastically change his Portsmouth squad yet again this summer.
It was a successful return to the Championship for Pompey. Mousinho’s men finished 16th, five points above the relegation zone, in their first season in the second tier since 2012.
Pompey enjoyed many memorable results last season, with the 1-0 win against eventual champions Leeds, and the 5-3 away victory at Norwich just a couple that come to mind.
However, if Portsmouth want to keep progressing at this level and making even more memories, then it will likely be with a new-look squad, with several exits already confirmed.
Portsmouth ready to make at least six new signings
Portsmouth supporters have been used to seeing many players come and go over recent summer transfer windows.
In the past two seasons in particular, there has been a high squad turnover with many players leaving, while many fresh faces have also signed at Fratton Park.
Speaking via Portsmouth’s YouTube channel, Mousinho predicted it would be another busy summer, with another small turnaround.
“There’s plenty to do, we still need to develop and build on the squad that we’ve got,” Mousinho said.
“Straight away, we’ve lost six loan players and they’re going to need replacing. Yes, we’ve got a few players coming back from injury, but you never know what we’re going to pick up going forward.
“There’s loads to do, I think, and we’re going to be nice and busy.”
Loan signings were crucial to Pompey’s survival last season
Players such as Rob Atkinson, Isaac Hayden and Freddie Potts all played a vital role in Portsmouth retaining their Championship status last season, but they have all returned to their parent clubs.
The South Coast club were dealt a blow in the transfer market after Liam Manning indicated that Atkinson will be staying at Bristol City.
This is despite Mousinho wanting to make the defender’s move to Fratton Park permanent.
Atkinson was a calming presence in Portsmouth’s backline in the second half of the season after joining on loan in January. Finding a like-for-like replacement for the towering defender will be a difficult but necessary task.
Midfield reinforcements must also be a priority for the recruitment team at Portsmouth over the summer, while Mousinho is also said to want a striker, winger and a number 10 to bolster his attacking options.
Adil Aouchiche, Mark O’Mahony and Kaide Gordon complete the six that need replacing.
Reports suggest that Pompey are set to look overseas when conducting their transfer business to find talent who can contribute to the squad whilst coming at a low price point.
It’s time to strap in, Portsmouth fans.