“I’d Be Confident” – Portsmouth Urged to Pursue Preston and Plymouth Forwards in Transfer Market…
Portsmouth FC will no doubt be pleased with how their 2024/25 campaign unfolded, following their successful promotion to the Championship the previous year.
After spending 12 straight seasons in League One and League Two, Pompey managed to stabilize their position in the Championship. Under John Mousinho’s guidance, they closed out the season with a five-game unbeaten streak, securing safety with two matches remaining.
With the focus now shifting to the summer transfer window, Mousinho and the club’s management are aiming to strengthen the squad and build on this solid foundation.
Emil Riis Suggested as Ambitious Transfer Target
Following a promising season back in the Championship, optimism is high at Fratton Park. A productive transfer window could provide Mousinho with the tools needed to pull further clear of the relegation battle next season.
As is typical in the Championship, several noteworthy players are available on free transfers. FLW’s Portsmouth fan pundit, Miltos Ioannidis, was asked who he believes the club should target. His top pick was Emil Riis, recently released by Preston North End—a club Mousinho once played for.
“I have a few names in mind,” Miltos said. “One that might be a bit of a long shot is Emil Riis. He’s just left Preston. While he can be inconsistent, he’s also a quality player with a proven goal-scoring record.”
Miltos noted that Riis might not be content as a backup to Colby Bishop, but still highlighted his value: “He did well against us this season. I’ve heard a lot of positives.”
Riis ended the season as Preston’s top scorer with 12 league goals. Despite that, the club failed to agree new terms with the 26-year-old striker, making him a free agent. Over five seasons at Deepdale, he scored 41 goals in 172 appearances, with two seasons yielding double-digit league goals. Though injuries have occasionally hampered him, interest in his signature is expected to be high this summer. Sheffield United, led by Chris Wilder, reportedly pursued him in January and may reignite their interest—posing a challenge for Portsmouth.
Mustapha Bundu Considered a More Realistic Option
Given the likely competition for Riis, Portsmouth would be wise to identify alternative attacking options.
Miltos suggested that Plymouth Argyle’s Mustapha Bundu could be a more attainable target. “If Riis doesn’t join, Bundu is another solid option. He scored double digits for a struggling Plymouth side and can operate as a winger or central forward.”
Bundu mainly featured on the right wing last season—a role Portsmouth are aiming to reinforce. “He could complement the attacking players we already have,” Miltos added. “He’d be a great addition.”
Bundu is expected to leave Plymouth soon, with his agent confirming his desire to move on despite the club offering a contract extension. The Sierra Leone international recorded 10 goals and six assists in a tough season for the Pilgrims, who were ultimately relegated. His performance in a struggling side suggests he could thrive in a more stable environment like Portsmouth.
If Pompey miss out on Riis, Bundu could prove to be a shrewd, cost-effective acquisition.
