Portsmouth eye Sheffield United player as they look to strengthen problem position before transfer deadline

Wales international Rhys Norrington-Davies has emerged as a potential solution to Portsmouth’s shortage at left-back, with the Championship club exploring a possible move for the Sheffield United defender.

Pompey have reportedly been encouraged by indications that Norrington-Davies could be available, particularly with his current contract at Bramall Lane set to expire at the end of the season.

The 27-year-old is currently behind Harrison Burrows and Sam McCallum in Sheffield United’s left-back pecking order. He can also fill in as a left-sided centre-back, although he faces strong competition for a place in that role as well.

Norrington-Davies spent the previous campaign on loan at Queens Park Rangers, making 39 appearances. He featured against Portsmouth twice during that spell, including the heavy 6-1 defeat suffered by Pompey at Loftus Road in March.

Portsmouth have now made contact with Sheffield United regarding the possibility of bringing the defender in on loan for the remainder of the season.

Norrington-Davies recently returned to league action after coming off the bench during Sheffield United’s goalless draw with Swansea City on Saturday. It was his first league appearance of the current campaign.

His career has been disrupted by persistent hamstring problems in recent years, injuries which also prevented him from representing Wales at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His latest international appearance came in June against Romania, when he earned his 17th cap in a 2-1 defeat.

Having progressed through Sheffield United’s academy, Norrington-Davies has gone on to make 68 senior appearances for the club and also gained Premier League experience during the 2023-24 season.

Portsmouth face left-back dilemma

Portsmouth’s search for defensive reinforcements has become more urgent following another injury setback for Connor Ogilvie.

The former Gillingham player recently underwent a second procedure on the same knee after continuing to experience discomfort following his original operation in July. His return has consequently been delayed by a further six weeks.

Pompey are also attempting to find a new club for Jacob Farrell, whose time on the south coast has been badly affected by injuries over the past two years.

As things stand, Zak Swanson is the only fit natural option available to Portsmouth at left-back, although the right-footed defender has been deployed there throughout the opening three matches of the season.

Swanson completed the entire game during Pompey’s impressive 3-1 away win against Lincoln on Saturday. However, he conceded a first-half penalty for handball, which Reeco Hackett converted.

With the September 1 transfer deadline approaching, Portsmouth will be keen to strengthen the position, and a loan deal for Norrington-Davies could provide them with an experienced option capable of operating in more than one defensive role.