According to journalist Alan Nixon, Portsmouth are thought to be eyeing a move for former Birmingham City full-back Josh Dacres-Cogley.
Dacres-Cogley, who is currently on the books of Bolton Wanderers, came through the youth ranks with the Blues, but failed to make the grade. He could be set to challenge them for promotion from League One this season or now make the step up to the Championship on his own accord.
The 28-year-old departed St Andrews in 2021 after a decade with the club. During that time, he appeared 23 times in the Championship, enjoying a loan spell with League Two Crawley in 2019/20.
Following his release from the Blues, he dropped back into League Two with Tranmere and was ever-present for them for two whole seasons. That saw his stock rise and Ian Evatt swopped for his signature despite strong interest from other League One clubs.
He was a key part of the Trotters squad that pushed Portsmouth and Derby all the way in the League One title race, missing just two matches, and that has clearly impressed Pompey. It’s believed he is now firmly on their radar, and Bolton boss Ian Evatt admitted last week he would sell key players if the price is right.
The fee is likely to be in the region of £500,000, a price set by Bolton. That’s about right according to the player’s value on Transfermarkt, but it may be enough to scare off John Mousinho’s Championship new boys, for now.
So far this season, Pompey has added Josh Murphy from fellow promoted side Oxford United, Jordan Williams, a defender also involved in last season’s promotion hunt with Barnsley, as well as Sam Silvera, Reuben Swann and Jordan Archer.
Writer’s View
Hindsight could be such a powerful tool. If only Birmingham had known what was coming, they’d have a top-notch League One fullback in their ranks right now. That’s the reality of their relegation; they will be facing some players once deemed not good enough.
That price tag should be enough to ensure Bolton retains Dacres-Cogley’s services, and they’ll be keen to do just that. He’s a real talent, consistent and able to get up and down the flank with efficiency.
If Bolton are forced to sell, his shoes will be significant to try to fill.
