Portsmouth manager John Mousinho confirmed on August 17 2026 that the club will seek a transfer‑budget increase after striker Thomas Waddingham suffered a setback, while still aiming to complete three more signings before the September 1 deadline. The Blues sit 18th in the Championship with 55 points from 46 games, recent form DWLWW, and a goal difference of -15 (49 scored, 64 conceded).\ \
What prompted the budget talk?
Mousinho explained that Waddingham’s injury forced the club to reassess its squad planning. The Australian forward, who did not count against the 25‑man senior limit, was a key part‑timer for the season. "It doesn’t fit at the minute because we didn’t anticipate it, but there’s room for discussions there," he told The News, hinting at possible extra funds to cover the gap. The manager stressed that any new striker must be versatile, capable of playing across the front line, rather than a 30‑year‑old centre‑forward brought in solely to plug a hole.\ \
How does the current transfer activity shape up?
Portsmouth have already added eight players this window, with Chelsea youngster Ryan Kavuma‑McQueen arriving on loan as the ninth signing. The club still needs a full‑back, a midfielder and a flexible attacker to replace Waddingham. Mousinho mentioned Callum Lang as a template - a player who can operate as a winger, a No 9 or a number 10. The manager also noted that the Eisners will be present for the Championship opener against QPR, providing an opportunity to discuss financial parameters with the owners.\ \
What does the squad look like after the injury?
With Waddingham out, Portsmouth must fit any replacement within the senior‑player cap unless the newcomer qualifies as an under‑21, which would bypass the limit. The club’s recent 1‑1 draw with Birmingham on May 2 2026 highlighted the need for depth up front. A versatile forward could help maintain the recent form of two wins, two draws and one loss in the last five matches, while the team prepares for its next home fixture against Cardiff on September 5 2026.\ \
What are the next steps for the club?
Mousinho plans to keep the transfer market active until the deadline, targeting a player who can adapt to multiple attacking roles. He expects the owners to consider a modest budget increase, especially if the club can secure a deal that aligns with its squad‑size constraints. The manager’s focus remains on smart recruitment, ensuring that any new signing adds value without compromising the club’s financial stability.
