Portsmouth missed out on signing Dundee defender Luke Graham after Stoke City hijacked the transfer, sporting director Richard Hughes confirmed. The 22-year-old had agreed personal terms with Pompey before joining Championship rivals Stoke, leaving the 18th-placed side frustrated in their defensive rebuild.
What happened with the transfer?
Portsmouth had been pursuing Graham since January, with a six-figure bid rejected by Dundee in the winter window. A deal appeared close this summer when Dundee accepted an offer, but Graham ultimately chose Stoke, citing Ryan Shawcross’s influence as a key factor. Hughes admitted the club did everything possible to secure the deal but accepted it ‘wasn’t to be.’
Why does this matter for Portsmouth?
The failed transfer is a setback for Portsmouth, who are reshaping their defence after conceding 64 goals last season (18th in the Championship, 55 points). With Ibane Bowat expected to leave and Conor Ogilvie injured, Hughes must now pivot to alternative targets. The club has already signed Odin Bailey and Eoin Kenny but needs further reinforcements before the 2026/27 campaign.
What’s next for Portsmouth?
Hughes remains active in the transfer market, with midfielder Rocco Shein (Fredrikstad) and striker Marko Milovanović (Almeria) linked. The sporting director is working with an increased budget and teased that the market has ‘livened up’ this week. Portsmouth’s next fixture is at home against Southampton (4th in the table) on February 27, 2027, as they look to improve on last season’s 18th-place finish.
