Portsmouth have decided not to follow up their initial interest in Standard Liege midfielder Aiden O’Neill after seeing a bid rejected earlier this week, according to The News.
Pompey have already been extremely active in the transfer market this summer as they look to add to their squad ahead of their return to the Championship. They have made four signings to date, including that of Oxford United‘s play-off hero Josh Murphy and Barnsley centre-back Jordan Williams.
John Mousinho has also added to his goalkeeper ranks but is now targeting a quality addition to his midfield. Journalist Will Unwin revealed Portsmouth’s interest in O’Neill, who is being watched by other clubs within the second tier, Turkey and the United States.
The Australian international came through the ranks at Burnley, where he made three Premier League appearances. A move back to his native Australia followed with Melbourne City before he made the switch to Belgium in 2023.
Comfortable operating in the centre of midfield and defence, the 26-year-old looks to be on his way out of Standard Liege this summer. He made 25 appearances in all competitions last season, but it is said that the Belgians are open to selling this summer. Despite that, Portsmouth initial bid was rejected.
It is now being reported that the Hampshire-based side have ended their interest in the former Fleetwood Town loanee. Instead, they are set to focus their efforts on other targets after seemingly being priced out of a move.
Liege believe that O’Neill is worth between £1.7 to £2.5 million, a figure Portsmouth will not consider. However, despite claims he could be sold, he could be promoted to club captain next season. Furthermore, he is keen to remain with the club after only signing last summer.
Writer’s View
Portsmouth were quick to walk away from this deal after learning what it would take to prise him away from the continent, and it’s easy to see why. They are targeting a number of signings this summer and won’t want to shell out so much on one player when they could explore other, cheaper alternatives.
It will be interesting to see if any other clubs from the Championship enter the running and whether this changes Pompey’s view. However, they are wise to not linger and pursue other options, especially as there are plenty of players they could attract at a fraction of the price. That said, they will need more bodies to cement their place in the division next season.
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