John Mousinho lure wins Portsmouth new four-year signing as European clubs snubbed
Portsmouth have become an attractive outfit to play for since John Mousinho was appointed manager two and a half years ago.
The Pompey boss has developed a reputation of playing attractive football and developing players from abroad.
Kusini Yengi, who has now joined Aberdeen, was given an opportunity by Mousinho, and now a fellow unknown player could be on his way to the South Coast.
Portsmouth win race for A-League star Adrian Segecic
Portsmouth have been fairly quiet in the opening stages of the transfer window.
Pompey were looking to bring Rob Atkinson back to the club after last season’s loan spell, but a managerial change at Bristol City has put that move on hold.
However, Mousinho now looks to have landed the signing of last season’s joint A-League Golden Boot winner Adrian Segecic.
Striker had been a position of concern for the Fratton Park boss, with Yengi’s departure added to Christian Saydee’s potential move, leaving the Blues’ options bare up top.
According to Australian outlet News Wire, Segecic, who scored 13 league goals last season, has agreed to terms on a four-year deal with English Championship outfit and is due for a medical on the South Coast.
The 21-year-old will join a host of ex-A-League players at Pompey, such as former Sydney FC teammate Hayden Matthews, as well as ex-Brisbane Roar striker Thomas Waddingham.
It’s understood that the presence of his fellow Australians, as well as his desire to play under the management of John Mousinho, led to Segecic choosing Portsmouth over options in Europe.
The Australian Under-23 international made 65 appearances in all competitions for Sydney FC, scoring 23 goals.
Portsmouth’s Australian signings will prove fruitful
Australia is a largely untapped market for young talent.
There has been a clear move from the Portsmouth hierarchy to push for scouting players from down under.
| Adrian Segecic 2024/25 stats | |
| Games | 24 |
| Goals | 13 |
| Assists | 2 |
Waddingham was signed by Portsmouth in January and is another player that could come alive next season due to the competition Segecic will bring.
The 20-year-old has struggled since arriving in England and has played just 101 minutes, largely due to Colby Bishop’s return.
It will be tough to challenge Bishop next season, but his Australian challengers offer a potential different option should Mousinho switch his options up top.