According to The News, Portsmouth’s valuation of Ronan Curtis could be a major stumbling block for the likes of Derby County and Reading despite the club’s ongoing debt.
Portsmouth failed to secure promotion back to the Championship after missing out on the top six, with Blackpool and Lincoln City to contest the upcoming playoff final.
Pompey’s prized assets are now the subject of interest from other clubs.
The News claim Derby, Reading, Blackburn Rovers and Cardiff are keen on winger Curtis.
But despite a monthly hole of £700,000 in their balance sheet, Portsmouth won’t sell their top players on the cheap and their valuation could price out some clubs.
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Covid has undoubtedly had an impact on finances across the sport, and the millions in lost revenue will make it difficult for many clubs to strengthen accordingly this summer.
Curtis posted an impressive ten goals and seven assists for Pompey this past season.
Derby, who finished as the Championship’s lowest scorers and finished just one place above the drop zone, are in desperate need of bolstering their attacking options.
The Rams saw Lee Gregory and Patrick Roberts return to their parent clubs following loan spells, while Martyn Waghorn is out of contract at Pride Park next month.
Derby must look at adding extra creativity and a regular goal scorer.
But with finances tight, Wayne Rooney’s side may not be able to spend significant transfer fees this summer or compete with clubs with parachute payments for key signings.
Also see: Report: Derby miss out on League One title winner, set for free transfer to league rivals
Also see: Manager says his side fended off interest to sign Derby player