Portsmouth figure excited as Brandon Downey transfer announced
Portsmouth had a productive summer transfer window, but have now completed another signing after the deadline earlier this week.
Eleven new players arrived at Fratton Park this summer, with Makenzie Kirk among several arrivals on transfer deadline day.
While a lot of signings have been made to have an immediate impact on the Portsmouth first team, there is an eye on the future, with the academy also making recruits.
Young starlet Brandon Downey has now joined Portsmouth as one of many additions, and Pompey have made an official announcement regarding his arrival.
Portsmouth confirm Brandon Downey signing
Portsmouth have now confirmed the arrival of Downey from Northern Irish side Crusaders FC, and he will join the Pompey under-18 team.
- Downey can play as a left-winger or a centre-forward, and is held in high regard at Crusaders.
- The 16-year-old made his senior debut last year.
- He has made 12 appearances for Crusaders’ first team.
Downey has been recruited as an exciting prospect for the future, and he can also help the Under-18s improve in the here and now as a new addition to the squad.
In a club statement, Portsmouth academy manager Greg Miller highlighted the role Downey could play in the youth sides following his arrival.
“We believe that he can complement the wide players already in the squad, with his ability to beat opponents and contribute both goals and assists,” Miller said.
- Read more: Southampton forward and Matt Doherty – Three players Portsmouth could sign for free in 2026
Mixed start to the season for Portsmouth Under-18s
Portsmouth Under-18s play in the Youth Alliance League, and have had a mixed start to their campaign.
Pompey have won two and lost two of their four matches so far, scoring nine goals and conceding 12, and find themselves 10th in a 12-team table.
It is hoped that Downey can help improve their creative and goal-scoring form, and the teenager arrives as a huge talent from Belfast who could potentially make the first team in the coming years.
Portsmouth are aiming to strengthen their academy with youth recruits, to help their existing talents flourish, as well as to strengthen the options they have available within the system.
If Downey can impress early on for the under-18s, then it may only be a matter of time before John Mousinho earmarks him for a small first-team role, potentially in cup games in the coming years.
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