Pompey stockpiling centre halves

[Gilps]

Campbell joining for free, £4 Million Distin deal nearing completion

 

Campbell set to seal Pompey deal

 

Portsmouth are closing in on a deal with England defender Sol Campbell.

Campbell underwent a medical at Fratton Park on Monday prior to signing what BBC Sport understands is a one-year contract with a further year's option.

 

The 31-year-old was released by Arsenal following his desire to seek a new challenge after five years at the club.

 

In a double swoop by boss Harry Redknapp, Pompey are also closing in on Manchester City defender Sylvain Distin - for a reported £4m.

 

With no transfer fee involved for the England defender, Portsmouth will be easier able to meet Campbell's salary, believed to be in the region of £60,000 a week.

 

Campbell marks the first big summer signing for Redknapp who had been struggling to put new owner Sasha Gaydamak's wallet to work.

 

Redknapp is keen to make Campbell and Distin, who is in the last year of his contract at Manchester City, his new defensive pairing.

 

The Pompey boss has also made an approach to Manchester City for England keeper David James.

 

Campbell announced at the end of last season that he was leaving the Gunners to seek "a new challenge" after five years with the London club.

 

He made 197 appearances for the Gunners and won five major trophies after joining the club from arch rivals Tottenham in 2001.

[Guz]

They must've bid for ever single player in the league this summer, how many have they signed? I can see O'Neill having a similar problem at Villa.

[Case]

Hmmm.... Cheeky bid for Andy O'Brien?