Portsmouth on verge of signing Crystal Palace winger, transfer fee revealed
Portsmouth are set to have an active transfer deadline day with John Mousinho still keen to make improvements to his squad.
While Portsmouth face a battle to keep hold of Josh Murphy, this has not deterred the manager from searching for new additions.
Makenzie Kirk looks set to move to Fratton Park, with St. Johnstone and the South Coast club agreeing on a fee.
Now, Mousinho is set to look to the Premier League to make additional reinforcements to his squad.
Portsmouth closing in on permanent transfer of Franco Umeh from Crystal Palace
Franco Umeh has been linked to Portsmouth throughout the transfer window.
The winger joined Crystal Palace from Cork City in 2024, and is believed to have plenty of potential.
The 20-year-old has featured on the bench multiple times for the Eagles, with the youngster able to play all down the left flank.
- Umeh is a current Republic of Ireland international
- The winger has netted 15 goals in 37 games in the academy
- Umeh now looks set to join Portsmouth
Portsmouth were believed to be looking to sign Umeh on loan.
However, according to Chris Wise via X on 1 September, Pompey are now seeking a permanent transfer.
A deal is believed to be close, with reports claiming that the fee is around £500,000.
Understand #Pompey are close to signing Crystal Palace winger Franco Umeh. Club initially explored loan deal, but appears it’s now going to be a permanent transfer. One source suggests the fee is around £500,000.
— Chris Wise (@chriswisey) September 1, 2025
With @iamAlexHowell. #cpfc #bbcfootball
Franco Umeh signing is a risk for John Mousinho
If Portsmouth do go through with the signing of Umeh, it is no doubt a risk.
Umeh has struggled with injuries at Crystal Palace and is yet to make a first-team appearance.
Given that some of Portsmouth’s recent young buys, such as Abdoulaye Kamara, have struggled, there will be question marks.
However, Umeh has shown potential, and there is a reason why Oliver Glasner has had him on the bench numerous times in the Premier League.
Hopefully, Mousinho is able to give him a platform to allow him to flurish this season.
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