Josef Bursik explains when he made Portsmouth transfer decision after surprise reveal
Portsmouth were able to plan for the transfer window way in advance, having secured their Championship status with games to spare in 2024-25.
Despite having ample time to secure signings, Conor Chaplin was among the deadline day arrivals for Pompey.
John Mousinho also has Josef Bursik within his ranks after the goalkeeper arrived from Club Brugge in a permanent move.
Now, the 25-year-old has opened up on the transfer, explaining when the South Coast club made their move for him.
Josef Bursik speaks out after Hibernian exit
Bursik may face a battle for the Pompey number one jersey, but for now, he will be focusing on impressing his new boss.
The 25-year-old spent last season on loan with Hibernian, where he was a first-team regular for the first half of the campaign.
However, the Englishman did not feature for the Edinburgh side after late November, having to settle for a place on the bench.
- The shot-stopper made 17 appearances for Hibs in all competitions
- He conceded 26 goals
- Bursik kept four clean sheets
Now that Bursik has had some time to settle at Fratton Park, he has spoken about the deal that took him back to England, making a surprise reveal that the interest actually emerged last season.
“Pretty much the back end of last season, to be honest,” he told the South Coast club’s website on 4 September when asked when he first heard of interest.
“It was something that I spoke to my agent about pretty soon after he heard about it, and it was pretty easy for me. I wanted to get it done straight away.
“It happens, it takes its time sometimes, but finally got it done, which is the most important thing, and can’t wait to get going.”
Read more: Southampton forward and Matt Doherty – Three players Portsmouth could sign for free in 2026
When could Josef Bursik make his debut for Pompey?
While Bursik will be eyeing a starting berth, he will likely have to remain patient for his chance.
So far this season, Nicolas Schmid has started all four Championship matches, while Ben Killip played in the Carabao Cup.
Schmid has been exceptional for the South Coast outfit this season, delivering a particularly eye-catching display against Oxford United.
Indeed, if it were not for his heroics, then Portsmouth may not have walked away with all three points and a clean sheet.
Although toppling Schmid will be no easy task, Bursik will provide improved competition and must stake his claim when a rare chance arrives.
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