Portsmouth competitors eye major double swoop amid Southampton’s £6m Bayern Munich move

Transfer activity is beginning to intensify across the Championship, with Portsmouth and their second-tier rivals preparing for a busy summer window ahead of the new campaign.

At Fratton Park, John Mousinho is expected to strengthen his squad significantly as Pompey aim to build on their return to the Championship. A number of names have already been linked with a move to the south coast, including Aribim Pepple, Luke Graham and Calum Adamson, as Portsmouth look to improve their options before the season begins.

However, Portsmouth are far from alone in planning major recruitment, with several Championship clubs already putting transfer strategies into motion.

One of the headline developments involves newly relegated West Ham United, who are preparing for life back in the second tier following their Premier League exit.

A summer overhaul is anticipated at the London Stadium as Nuno Espirito Santo reshapes his squad in pursuit of an immediate top-flight return. Reports suggest the Hammers are already targeting reinforcements and could launch an ambitious double swoop for two highly rated Championship talents.

According to claims, Sheffield United midfielder Sydie Peck has emerged as a priority target for West Ham. The 21-year-old is believed to have been monitored since January, with the London club now considering a formal move as they look to strengthen the middle of the park.

Peck, an England youth international, still has two years remaining on his current contract at Bramall Lane, meaning Sheffield United are expected to resist any cut-price offers.

West Ham’s interest does not stop there.

The same reports indicate Cardiff City defender Dylan Lawlor is also attracting attention after impressing during the Bluebirds’ successful promotion campaign from League One. The 20-year-old featured prominently last season and played a key role in helping Cardiff secure an immediate return to the Championship.

With Lawlor tied down until 2028, Cardiff are under little pressure to sell, meaning West Ham may have to spend significantly if they want to secure both targets.

Meanwhile, Southampton have moved quickly to complete a permanent deal for goalkeeper Daniel Peretz following an impressive loan spell at St Mary’s.

The 25-year-old has joined from Bayern Munich in a transfer reportedly worth just over £6 million and has signed a four-year contract with Tonda Eckert’s side.

Peretz enjoyed a productive spell on the south coast after arriving in January, registering nine clean sheets in 26 appearances across all competitions.

The goalkeeper also featured in Southampton’s 1-1 draw against Portsmouth at Fratton Park and now appears set to play a key role in the Saints’ plans moving forward.