After England’s second consecutive defeat in a European Championships final, football fans are shifting their focus back to club football. Portsmouth supporters, in particular, are eagerly awaiting their return to the second tier after over a decade’s absence.
The Blues have already made several signings to strengthen their squad, including Jordan Williams, Jordan Archer, Josh Murphy, Reuben Swann, and Sam Silvera. These additions aim to bolster the team for next season’s challenges. While transfer activity has slowed in recent weeks, sporting director Rich Hughes has reassured fans that “everything is progressing nicely” and more signings are expected at Fratton Park.
With just over three weeks remaining until the start of the new season, we take a look at the key transfer headlines from Portsmouth’s 2024/25 Championship rivals.
Sheffield United and Coventry battle to land goalkeeper
Sheffield United and Coventry City are both targeting Plymouth Argyle goalkeeper Michael Cooper, according to reports from the Sheffield Star.
Cooper has been Plymouth’s first-choice goalkeeper since 2020, making 151 league appearances. The 24-year-old was included in the League One Team of the Season for two consecutive years before securing promotion to the Championship in 2023.
New Plymouth boss Wayne Rooney highly rates Cooper and considers him part of his long-term plans. However, Cooper’s contract in Devon is set to expire next summer, and he has recently declined an offer to extend his stay at the club.
This uncertainty has attracted interest from the Blades and the Sky Blues, both aiming for Premier League promotion this season. Additionally, Premier League side Crystal Palace could join the race for Cooper if Sam Johnstone leaves Selhurst Park this summer.
Currently, ex-Blade Dean Henderson is the first-choice goalkeeper for the Eagles, and Johnstone is seeking clarity on his game time for next season before deciding on his future.
Former Huddersfield Town man leaves West Brom
Former Huddersfield Town and Nottingham Forest defender Michael Hefele has announced his departure from his role as first-team assistant coach at West Brom after 18 months in the West Midlands. During his tenure, Hefele helped guide the Baggies to the Championship play-offs, although they were ultimately defeated by Southampton in the semi-finals.
A statement from West Brom reads: “Albion can confirm first-team assistant coach Michael Hefele has today departed the club to pursue a new challenge overseas.
“The former Huddersfield Town man joined Carlos Corberan’s backroom staff in December 2022. The club thanks ‘Hef’ for his services to Albion and wishes him well in his future career.”