Portsmouth FC have already attracted firm bids for several senior squad members, with sporting director Rich Hughes saying the club expects a number of departures before the new season kicks off.

Which players are on the chopping block?

Hughes listed centre‑back Jacob Farrell and defender Ibane Bowat as the headline targets, both described as out‑of‑favour. He also mentioned midfielder Josh Knight, full‑back Luke Le Roux, forward Makenzie Kirk and youngster Harvey Blair as players under review. The club currently lists 31 senior players, a figure Hughes wants to shrink to accommodate up to six new signings.

Why is Portsmouth pushing for a squad overhaul?

The squad size has swelled after recent additions of Odin Bailey and Eoin Kenny, leaving little room for further recruitment. Hughes explained that a leaner roster will give manager John Mousinho more flexibility in shaping his tactical plans. "We expect some players to go and others to come in the same token," he told The News, emphasizing the need to balance departures with incoming talent.

How are transfer talks progressing?

According to Hughes, several clubs have already made concrete offers, and negotiations are moving quickly. He stressed that the process respects both the buying and selling sides, noting that "when we’re trying to sign a player, there’s a lot of work which goes into it and I suspect other clubs are doing similar processes." The sporting director expects the majority of exits to be finalised in the coming weeks as the summer window closes.

What role does the pre‑season camp play?

Hughes spent the week‑long pre‑season camp in the Republic of Ireland alongside manager John Mousinho, spending 16‑17 hours a day together. The proximity allows real‑time discussion of transfer targets and potential departures. "It’s really handy I am out here with John," Hughes said, adding that the camp’s schedule helps keep all parties aligned while clubs across Europe are also in pre‑season mode.

What does this mean for Portsmouth’s upcoming season?

A trimmed squad could free up wages and registration spots, enabling the Blues to bring in players suited to Mousinho’s style. With the Championship season looming, securing the right mix of experience and youth will be vital. Fans can expect a flurry of activity as the club aims to finalise its roster before the league resumes in August.

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