Harry Redknapp is firmly in wheeler-dealer mode at the moment, laughing off talk about making some big-money signings and instead focusing on bringing in players on loan or a cut-price deal. You might have thought that the sale of Sulley Muntari would fund some decent acquisitions but the Portsmouth manager has instead brought in players from Charlton and Arsenal.
Sky Sports reports that Jerome Thomas has been signed permanently from the Addicks for a small fee, and while the player always seemed to look bright for Charlton in the Premier League, he will surely be no more than a bit-part player for Pompey. They also report that Armand Traore has arrived at the South Coast club on loan, is this really a progressive signing for the FA Cup holders?
The Blues’ chief executive Peter Storrie confirmed that a deal had been struck for former England U21 international Thomas, allowing the club to explore other options.
He said: “It’s a simple conversion from a loan deal to a permanent contract for a year. It frees up a loan space.
“Jerome could have been recalled by Charlton in January under the terms of his loan, but that’s no longer a factor now his deal has been made permanent.”
Arsenal full-back Armand Traore has joined Portsmouth on a season-long loan.
The 18-year-old Frenchman is highly-rated at Emirates Stadium, and will look to gain valuable first-team experience during his time at Fratton Park.
I guess with Harry splashing the cash on Jermain Defoe and Peter Crouch this season, he has been restricted by who else he can bring in. The likes of the above, along with Younes Kaboul and Glen Little are all sound acquisitions, but are they an improvement on what Portsmouth have already got?