Portsmouth fans in complete disagreement amid Swift transfer latest
Portsmouth look set to make former West Brom midfielder John Swift their second signing of the summer.
The midfield star is a free agent following his release at The Hawthorns.
Swift had several options, but was always keen on a move to Portsmouth. He was born in the city and spent a short time in their youth academy.
However, it’s fair to say that not all Portsmouth fans are excited about the potential transfer.
Portsmouth fans split on Swift signing
Portsmouth have been linked with a move for Swift for most of the summer, although it emerged on Saturday (12 July) that the former Reading and West Brom star was taking a medical at Fratton Park.
That prompted many Pompey fans to share their views about the signing on social media, and not all of them were positive.
Some fans expressed concerns about his work rate, while others suggested he was nothing more than a ‘Plan B’ signing.
Anyone actually know if this guy is reliable ? #pompey https://t.co/s7y3ZvNF7j
— Pompeyspud (@pompeyspud) July 12, 2025
However, there were plenty of supporters who expressed gratitude and excitement about the signing. Many suggested that it showed that the club was moving in the right direction, even if it wasn’t the most exciting transfer.
Mousinho and Portsmouth’s recruitment team should have earned the fans’ trust by now
There are reasons for fans to be wary of signing Swift, particularly as he’s likely to be among Pompey’s highest earners. It seems to be unanimous among West Brom fans that he’s lazy and doesn’t like to track back.
Still, at this point, John Mousinho, Rich Hughes and Pompey’s recruitment team must surely have earned the fans’ trust.
Mousinho’s signings have proven to be beneficial to the team more often than not. When a player isn’t good enough for the Championship, he’s generally quick to recognise that and move him on.
Swift can play in the number 10 role, but he’s also capable of dropping back further to play as an 8. These are positions where Pompey need back-up.
| John Swift Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 335 |
| Goals | 57 |
| Assists | 50 |
The 30-year-old has racked up hundreds of Championship appearances. His experience will be invaluable both on and off the pitch. Plus, he’s a local guy who knows what the club means to supporters.
For a free transfer, Swift is surely worth a punt.
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