Portsmouth could ‘sign perfect Potts replacement’ with 2.Bundesliga star
Portsmouth are in the market for a new midfielder to replace Freddie Potts.
Potts was a revelation during his time on loan at Pompey, but has now returned to his parent club, West Ham United, in the Premier League.
While John Mousinho has admitted he’d love for Potts to return to Fratton Park, it seems more likely that he’ll fight for a place at the London Stadium.
Several midfielders have been linked with a move to Portsmouth this summer, including the likes of Jordan Thompson and Darko Gyabi.
However, with Portsmouth looking around Europe for their business, Germany could bring them rewards.
German midfielder is perfect fit for Portsmouth
Enzo Leopold, 24, has been performing consistently well for Hannover 96 in the second tier of German football.
He is an industrious centre-midfielder, much like Potts, and is known for having the energy to make an impact in attack and defence.
Potts’ box-to-box style of play was crucial to Portsmouth’s system this season, and Mousinho will be seeking a similarly energetic player in this summer’s transfer window.
| Enzo Leopold statistic 2024-25 | |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Minutes Played | 2973 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 5 |
Leopold has only one year left on his contract and could be open to a new challenge, given that Hannover are showing no signs of fighting for promotion to the Bundesliga.
If Pompey put in a reasonable bid for his services, the German club could decide to cash in.
Savvy transfer window is key to Pompey progress
The transfer window opened on 1 June, and Pompey fans will be eagerly awaiting news of new players being recruited.
The first-team squad is weaker since Potts and other loan signings have returned to their parent clubs.
Pompey will have to find suitable replacements for these players at the very least if they are to progress in the Championship.
It’s looking more likely that Rob Atkinson might rejoin the squad, but the Blues need more.
The transfer budget is likely to pale in comparison to other Championship clubs, which means they may have to rely on astute signings and loan deals.
Thankfully, in Mousinho, they have a manager who is quickly gaining a reputation for building a great squad with minimal funds.
Mousinho was savvy enough to complete the loan deal for Potts last summer. He may have to be equally shrewd to find his replacement.