Portsmouth have distanced themselves from reports suggesting they are in talks to sign former Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford on a free transfer.
The 32-year-old forward, who left Elland Road in the summer, has been linked with several clubs in England and abroad, but Pompey are not among them.
No Deal for Bamford
Rumours circulated among supporters on Monday evening that John Mousinho’s side were closing in on a deal for the ex-Derby County and Crystal Palace man. However, The News understands there is no truth to claims that the Championship newcomers are considering Bamford as an option.
The England international has attracted interest from Middlesbrough, Wrexham and Spanish side Getafe, as well as potential suitors in Major League Soccer. But while Pompey retain scope to add an out-of-contract player due to a vacant space in their 25-man squad, the striker is not currently being pursued.
Space Still Available
Mousinho opted not to register goalkeeper Jordan Archer when submitting his squad to the EFL after the transfer window closed, leaving one over-21 spot open. It is a strategy the manager has used before, bringing in players mid-season to provide cover when needed.
“We haven’t necessarily got eyes on any potential players we want to bring in, but I’d guess you’d never know,” Mousinho told The News last month. “We’re really satisfied with where we are as a squad, certainly in terms of numbers, we’ve bolstered our numbers over the past couple of weeks.
“But should something happen I think it’s wise for us to leave that spot open.”
Last season, Pompey used the same approach to sign midfielder Lee Evans from Ipswich Town in February, and defender Alexander Milosevic in March, both joining outside the transfer window. Evans played a small but useful role in securing promotion, while Milosevic failed to make a senior appearance.
Eyes Forward at Fratton Park
Although Bamford’s Premier League experience would make him a high-profile addition, Mousinho is understood to be content with his current attacking options. Portsmouth’s forward line has performed well since stepping up to the Championship, reducing the need for further signings.
For now, Bamford’s next destination remains uncertain, with interest elsewhere likely to determine his next move. Portsmouth’s focus, meanwhile, stays firmly on maintaining their strong start to life back in the second tier.
Writer’s View
Pompey’s decision not to chase Bamford makes sense in context. Mousinho has built a balanced and cohesive squad capable of competing in the Championship without relying on marquee signings.
While Bamford’s experience could tempt other sides, Portsmouth’s measured approach to squad management has been key to their recent success, and suggests they won’t be rushed into a move that doesn’t fit their long-term strategy.
