REPORT: Portsmouth FC transfer reveal hands boost to Derby County and Norwich City

Portsmouth is actively seeking three new wingers this summer as they prepare for their return to the Championship under manager John Mousinho. Despite their interest in bolstering their squad, former player Jamal Lowe will not be among their targets, as reported by The News.

Although Portsmouth acknowledges Lowe’s talent and appreciates his abilities, they have opted not to pursue him due to concerns over his wage demands, which exceed their budgetary limits. Therefore, despite Lowe becoming a free agent after his contract with Bournemouth expires this summer, Portsmouth is exploring other potential signings.

This decision by Portsmouth to pass on Lowe’s pursuit has provided encouragement to other clubs in the EFL, such as Derby County, Norwich City, Watford, and Millwall, who have been linked with the winger.

Lowe initially joined Portsmouth in 2016 from Hampton & Richmond and had a successful stint at Fratton Park before moving on to higher divisions.

He was a player who consistently thrilled the Fratton Park faithful with his industriousness, skill in dribbling past opponents, and ability to use both feet, qualities that endeared him to Pompey supporters.

During his time at Portsmouth, the 29-year-old made significant contributions, including a crucial goal against Notts County in 2017. This goal played a pivotal role in securing Portsmouth’s promotion back to League One after a four-year spell in the fourth tier.

Another memorable moment came at Wembley in 2019 when he executed a delightful lob against Sunderland. This goal was part of Portsmouth’s triumph in lifting the EFL Trophy, an achievement witnessed by a massive crowd of 85,000 fans.

Lowe netted 17 goals in League One in his final season at Fratton Park before moving to Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2019. He remains cherished for his tenure in Portsmouth’s blue jersey on the south coast.

Lowe has established himself as a reliable player in the Championship. Portsmouth’s leadership has expressed admiration for Lowe, seeking to bolster their wide options after Abu Kamara’s return to Norwich following an impressive loan stint.

With experience at four Championship clubs—Wigan, Swansea City, AFC Bournemouth, and Queens Park Rangers—Lowe has amassed 39 goals and 12 assists in that division. He departed AFC Bournemouth after a loan spell at Swansea, where he scored nine goals as they finished 14th in the Championship.

Following his departure from Vitality Stadium, Lowe is likely to attract interest from several Championship sides, despite his struggles to break into the squad during Bournemouth’s Premier League campaigns.

Regrettably for Portsmouth, they are unlikely to secure Lowe’s signature for their Championship comeback, but they remain hopeful in their recruitment efforts under Mousinho for a successful season in the second tier.

Portsmouth supporters can anticipate Lowe’s return to Fratton Park next season, albeit in the colors of another club. His return is sure to be welcomed warmly, acknowledging his contributions during his time at Portsmouth.