Portsmouth are flying high at the top of League One but have already turned their attention towards the summer transfer window to strengthen the squad, according to the latest reports.
After a blip in form at the end of last year through the beginning of 2024, John Mousinho’s side are back in motion, having picked up four straight victories in England’s second tier and are currently on a seven-match unbeaten run.
Furthermore, Pompey boast the joint-second-best attacking record and second-best defensive records in the division, having opened up a nine-point lead on third-place Bolton Wanderers on Saturday with a comfortable 4-1 win over relegation-threatened Reading.
With some favourable fixtures on the horizon, Portsmouth could race further ahead in the table before taking on Derby County on the first day of April, although the Rams and Bolton still have games in hand. Nevertheless, with promotion to the Championship a real possibility this term, the club already have a summer transfer option in mind.
According to FootballTransfers, the Hampshire outfit have reignited interest in Brighton and Hove Albion academy product Marc Leonard, who is learning his trade on loan at League One side Northampton Town.
Marc Leonard that is special! 🔝🗑
A goal straight from the training ground for @ntfc
ITV4 is the place to watch @EFL highlights at 9pm tonight! pic.twitter.com/YOa94KJAKK
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) February 17, 2024
The outlet are claiming that Pompey made an attempt to sign the 22-year-old during the previous summer window but were unsuccessful as he returned to the Cobblers for a second loan stint. However, Mousinho’s side will reportedly go back in for the rising star at the end of the season, with his market value currently just below £400,000, as per Transfermarkt.
Leonard has been an integral part of Jon Brady’s team this term, scoring four goals and recording three assists in 34 appearances as the newly promoted side are holding down 11th place in the league.
Writer’s View
Having played for Northampton in League Two last season, helping Brady’s men earn promotion to the third tier, Leonard has been learning his craft in League One. Should Portsmouth return to the Championship for the first time in seven years, the central midfielder will likely want to try his hand at the next step of the English football pyramid.
However, Pompey will undoubtedly face a saturated race for Leonard and may have to pay over the odds for his signature, especially since he signed a new contract with Brighton until 2025, which includes the option to extend his stay by a further year.
