Portsmouth are reportedly set to sign Comoros international defensive midfielder Iyad Mohamed from Casa Pia. The 25-year-old French-born player has emerged as a target for Pompey as they seek to strengthen their midfield options before the transfer window closes this week.
This potential move, reported by portsmouth.co.uk based on a claim from French commentator Nordine L'Instant, follows a summer search for a player in that position. Deals for other targets, Gibson Yah and Jesper Ceesay, did not materialize. A move for Mali international Boubacar Traore from Wolverhampton Wanderers was also previously discussed after he was told he could leave the club.
Who is Iyad Mohamed?
Iyad Mohamed is a 25-year-old defensive midfielder who represents the Comoros Islands at international level. Born in Dunkirk, France, he currently plays for Casa Pia in Portugal's Primeira Liga. His previous career includes spells at French clubs Auxerre, Caen, Le Mans, and Pau FC. Mohamed has spent the last two seasons in the Portuguese top flight with Casa Pia, a Lisbon-based club that finished ninth and 16th in those campaigns. He made 35 appearances for them across that period but has not featured in their first three matches of this new season, watching from the stands instead.
His contract with Casa Pia, based at Estádio Pina Manique, has one year remaining. According to data from Flashscore.co.uk, his current market value is estimated at €369,000. Manager Filipe Coelho has not selected him for matchday squads in the early stages of the current campaign.
Why Portsmouth need a midfielder
Portsmouth's interest comes as they look to add depth and quality to their midfield roster. The club's search has been ongoing throughout the summer transfer window, which now has less than a week remaining. The failed pursuits of other targets have made securing a player in this role a clear priority for the squad build. Adding a player with Mohamed's experience in a competitive European league could provide valuable options in the engine room.
This need is underscored by the club's current league position. As of 26 August 2026, Portsmouth sit 10th in the Championship table with three points from two games, having won one and lost one. They have scored four goals and conceded four, leaving them with a zero goal difference. You can track their progress on the standings page. They are three points behind early leaders Millwall.
What happens next for Pompey
The immediate focus for the club is finalizing any late business before the window shuts. A deal for Iyad Mohamed would represent a significant addition to the playing group. Attention will then quickly turn back to the pitch and the upcoming Championship schedule.
Portsmouth's next match is an away fixture against Bristol City on 29 August 2026. Bristol City currently occupy 19th place in the table. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures page. The team will be looking to build on their start, with striker E. Adams currently the top scorer this season with one goal in two appearances. Further details on the squad are available on our squad page.
If the move proceeds, integrating a new player from a different league will be the next task for the coaching staff. The reported gossip suggests the club is working to address a key area of the team as they compete in the early stages of the Championship season.
