Brighton stance revealed as Portsmouth lead Sheffield Wednesday transfer race | OneFootball

Portsmouth and Sheffield Wednesday are both in the hunt for Brighton forward Mark O'Mahony

Key Takeaways

Portsmouth are set to compete with Sheffield Wednesday for the signing of Brighton youngster Mark O’Mahony.

According to The News, Pompey are keen on bringing the Ireland youth international into the squad before the market closes next week.

John Mousinho’s side have already added a number of fresh faces this transfer window following their promotion to League One.

But their business may not be done just yet, as we reach the final week of the summer market.

O’Mahony is coming through the ranks of the Brighton academy system, and has already made three Premier League appearances in his senior career (all stats from Fbref).

Portsmouth and Sheffield Wednesday eye Brighton starlet

Portsmouth are eyeing a loan deal for O’Mahony before the window closes on 30 August.

However, they face competition from rivals Sheffield Wednesday as the Seagulls look to offload the forward on loan.

While O’Mahony made a breakthrough into the first-team squad last year under Roberto de Zerbi, it is understood that the club wants to shift the Irishman out on loan in order for him to receive regular playing time this season.

It is believed that Portsmouth are in an advantageous position in the race to secure his signature, but no deal has yet been agreed.

Brighton will be keen to see the 19-year-old play regularly at this level in order to aid his development.

Pompey have the likes of Kusini Yengi, Christian Saydee and Colby Bishop to choose from in their first team squad when everyone is available.

However, Bishop is currently out of action after undergoing heart surgery this summer, and it is unclear when he will be back in the team.

The 27-year-old was a key part of the side last year as they won the League One title, so his absence creates a space in the squad that O’Mahony could make his own.

Portsmouth’s start to the Championship season

Elias Sorensen and Saydee started up front in Portsmouth’s first two Championship games, with the team earning two draws against Leeds United and Luton Town respectively.

The potential arrival of O’Mahony could see him stake a claim for that position as his own, although much will also depend on Bishop’s return to fitness.

A 3-3 draw against the Whites on the opening day at Elland Road earned the team their first Championship point since 2012.

Next up for Mousinho’s team is a trip to face Middlesbrough on Saturday in a 3pm kick-off.

O’Mahony signing would be promising step for Portsmouth

O’Mahony is a very highly rated young player, and Brighton have earned a reputation for producing a lot of upcoming talent.

Getting him on loan could be a smart solution to their forward issue, as it’s still unknown when Bishop will return.

It would be asking a lot to rely on a 19-year-old to lead the team’s forward line for a full season, but it’s an opportunity O’Mahony should relish as it’s a chance to prove himself at senior level.