‘Portsmouth eye move for West Ham starlet, move hinges on one condition’
Championship side Portsmouth are interested in securing the services of a talented West Ham youngster, with the chances of the move hanging in the balance.
Pompey secured their status in the second tier with a 16th place finish, ending their first campaign back in the division five points clear of the drop zone.
Under John Mousinho, the south coast side will feel that they can kick on once again next season, and steer completely clear of the relegation fight.
Portsmouth also have a local derby to look forward to, after Southampton were relegated from the Premier League, finishing 20th and last.
Portsmouth desperate to bring Potts back
Freddie Potts was one of the standout players for Pompey last season, playing 37 games in what was an incredibly successful loan spell.
| Games | Goals | Assists |
| 37 | 1 | 4 |
As a result of his good performances, West Ham handed the young midfielder a new four and a half year contract, tying him down until 2029.
Speaking to The Mirror (29 May), Portsmouth Sporting Director Rich Hughes revealed that the club are keen to bring Potts back for another season-long loan on the south coast.
Hughes said: “If there was a way of doing it we would love to, although I wouldn’t be surprised to see Fred in the Premier League next year.
“It’s just whether it’s going to be likely for him in terms of West Ham’s plans and thinking.”
West Ham braced for summer exits
Football Insider Verdict
If Potts departs, it will be on a temporary basis, but there are a number of other players who could be leaving the London Stadium for good.
Mohammed Kudus could depart West Ham in the summer, and despite reports of a switch to Saudi Arabia, Newcastle could make a move for the 24-year-old.
Tomas Soucek is rumoured to be another one leaving East London, but West Ham are adamant that Jarrod Bowen is not for sale.
Bowen scored 13 goals and picked up eight assists to help his side to 14th in the Premier League, and without their captain, the Hammers would have been in a much less desirable position.
If Potter can keep hold of his prized asset, then he will at least have some chance of turning things around and keeping his job.