Portsmouth have ruled out a move for Chesterfield winger Armando Dobra but manager John Mousinho insists funds remain available for late additions before Monday’s deadline.
The Blues boss has confirmed that a winger and a striker are still on his radar, with Crystal Palace’s Franco Umeh and St Johnstone’s Makenzie Kirk the main targets.
Dobra not on Pompey’s list
Reports earlier in the week suggested Pompey were among a cluster of clubs interested in Dobra, including Derby County, Bolton Wanderers, Oxford United, Reading and Luton Town. The former Ipswich Town man is valued at €275,000 on Transfermarkt (£230,000), but could cost suitors much more.
However, despite the speculation, The News reports there is no plan to advance a deal for the 24-year-old.
That clarity shifts the focus back to other names. Umeh, the 20-year-old Palace prospect, remains high on the list as a potential loan signing. With only two loanees currently in the squad – Florian Bianchini and Minhyeok Yang – Portsmouth still have capacity to bring in temporary additions. Kirk, meanwhile, has also been earmarked, though competition is stiff after Peterborough United had a £500,000 bid rejected for the striker.
Transfer budget update
Mousinho has been clear that Pompey’s ownership have continued to back his plans. He pointed to steady investment over the past year, with significant fees already spent on players such as Adrian Segecic, Mark Kosznovszky, Luke Le Roux and Josh Knight this summer.
“We’ve stepped it up again this summer with the increased spending on Adrian, Mark, Luke and Josh – and possibly a couple more as we go to the close of the window,” Mousinho explained. “I think I’m accurate in what I say because we’ve actually gone and done it.”
The manager emphasised that while the budget has grown, the approach remains measured: fees will be paid where necessary but only for players considered upgrades. That leaves scope for one or two late moves if the right opportunities emerge.
Pompey’s final push
Seven signings have already been made at Fratton Park this window, with balance across defence and midfield now largely in place. The final emphasis lies on bolstering the forward line and adding pace out wide. Umeh’s attacking promise and Kirk’s potential as an emerging striker fit that remit, though deals must be struck quickly.
Mousinho’s stance suggests that the Blues are not finished yet and that ambition remains high. Whether they can get both preferred targets across the line will be the main storyline in the final days of trading.
Writer’s View
By ruling out Dobra, Pompey have shown clarity in their recruitment strategy: focus resources on younger, higher-ceiling targets rather than chasing every link. Umeh and Kirk would fit the model of investing in players who can grow with the club. With momentum already built this summer, landing both would round off an impressive window at Fratton Park.
