(Credit: Imago)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Thu 2 April 2026 15:32, UK

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Portsmouth and Luton are eyeing moves to sign defender Arkell Jude-Boyd on a free transfer from League Two side Cheltenham Town, sources have told Football Insider.

The 23-year-old is out of contract at Cheltenham this summer and has so far failed to put pen to paper on an extension with the League Two club.

News of Jude-Boyd’s potential availability has alerted a number of EFL clubs who have been impressed by the right-back’s performances so far this season.

Portsmouth and Luton are two of those interested in the former Queen’s Park Rangers youngster, and could make a move as they look to bolster their defensive options.

Cheltenham are believed to be keen to keep the Saint Lucia international beyond the end of the season, but growing interest could tempt him to move on.

Why has Arkell Jude-Boyd attracted high-profile interest?

Jude-Boyd has been highly regarded in the EFL since his departure from QPR in 2024, when Football Insider revealed interest from Plymouth Argyle and Rotherham.

Two years on, he looks set to be available on a free transfer again, with clubs in League One and the Championship keeping a close eye on his situation.

His performances in League Two have suggested he may be ready to make the step up, with Cheltenham battling down towards the bottom of the Football League.

Luton boss Jack Wilshere has previously spoken about the right-back situation at Kenilworth Road as he insisted Izzy Jones is his first-choice in the position.

However, he is keen to strengthen given ongoing injury concerns and a lack of clear depth, while Portsmouth are aiming to bolster ahead of their potential relegation.

Luton set for busy summer amid Jack Wilshere sack latest

A new right-back is not the only target for Luton after what has been a difficult campaign in League One following their relegation from the Championship last season.

However, their hopes of strengthening their squad this summer may also include the arrival of a new manager as the pressure continues to pile on Wilshere.

Despite a turnaround in their league form before the international break which saw them go four games unbeaten, Luton remain 11th in League One.

Having been targeting automatic promotion at the start of the season, Football Insider reported that Wilshere is facing serious questions at Luton.

While the current plan is to back the boss heading into the summer, with new arrivals potentially including Jude-Boyd, he must continue their recent turnaround.