The celebrations from Portsmouth’s League One title-winning campaign are now finally starting to die down.
After a remarkable debut season in management for John Mousinho, the Blues will now embark on their first Championship campaign for 12 years.
The Fratton Faithful can be forgiven for making the most of their celebrations, after all, it’s been seven long years in England’s third tier, probably five years longer than anyone at the club was expecting.
Of course, with the fixtures set to be released on June 26, the club can now start to look ahead to what is another crucial campaign in Pompey’s recent history.
Staying in the Championship could give Pompey the springboard to get back to competing for a place in the Premier League, something that the Fratton Faithful can right now only dream of.
With several players departing PO4 upon the expiring of their contracts, new arrivals will come through the door to bolster the Blues’ Championship credentials.
And here are five players Pompey have been linked with in recent weeks.
1. Anthony Evans
According to the Portsmouth News, Pompey are tracking Bristol Rovers midfielder Antony Evans.
The 25-year-old is believed to be thought of as a player who can bolster the Blues’ attacking midfield options.
Evans netted six goals and registered six assists for the Gas in 43 matches last season. It’s believed Rovers’ boss, Matt Taylor, is eager to agree on a new deal with the attacking midfield. However, no resolution has been reached.
2. Jesurun Rak-Sakyi
It’s understood Pompey are ready to reignite their interest in Crystal Palace starlet Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.
The tricky winger has previously spent time on loan with Charlton Athletic in League One and was wanted by Ipswich Town last summer.
Its believed, at present, a deal for the 21-year-old seems unlikely.
3. Jamal Lowe
According to TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey, Portsmouth are keen for talks with with their former winger Jamal Lowe. The 29-year-old is set to be a free agent upon the expiration of his AFC Bournemouth contract.
Swansea, Ipswich Town and Norwich City are all understood to be interested in the forward.
Pompey plucked Lowe out of non-league in 2017, although a romantic return to Fratton Park feels a long way off.
4. Bosun Lawal
According to The Scottish Sun, the Blues are tracking Celtic youngster Bosun Lawal, who spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Fleetwood Town.
After initially struggling in a deeper role at the Highbury Stadium, the 20-year-old grew into a midfield role and was a huge part of the Cods’ good end-of-season form under Charlie Adam.
Considering Lawal’s age and potential, this one feels slightly more realistic.
5. Karamoko Dembele
Another former Celtic youngster has been linked in the form of Karamoko Dembele. The 21-year-old tore the Blues to shreds during Blackpool’s visit to Fratton Park, and it would be a serious coup if a deal could be arranged.
The Portsmouth News reports that Dembele is admired by Mousinho, so this could well be one to keep an eye on as the summer progresses.