Portsmouth FC (Pompey) is gearing up for an exciting new phase with a warm-weather training camp in Pula, Croatia. Enthusiastic Blues fans eagerly anticipate watching their team train, especially with five fresh talents joining the squad. Head Coach John Mousinho is optimistic that this week abroad will bolster the team’s camaraderie ahead of a fiercely competitive Championship season.

While the transfer window remains open, expectations were that more than just five new players would be seen at Fratton Park by now. As we wait to see if further acquisitions are on the horizon, let’s delve into the latest news surrounding Pompey’s upcoming Championship competitors.

Middlesbrough Eye Hull City’s Newly Signed Defender

Middlesbrough is reportedly reigniting their interest in Hull City’s recently acquired defender, Ryan Giles. Despite Giles only recently completing his permanent move to East Yorkshire, speculation abounds that his tenure with Hull may be short-lived. Originally signed from Luton Town after a loan spell, Hull secured Giles for £4 million.

However, according to The Yorkshire Post, Boro remains keen on the 24-year-old and is believed to be preparing a bid. Financial insights suggest that while Middlesbrough may not match Hull’s purchase fee, Hull’s current economic conditions might make them open to negotiations.

Giles joined Hull City in January, featuring in 17 games as the team narrowly missed out on the Championship play-offs by just three points. The left-wing back, who began his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers, has had loan spells at several clubs, including Shrewsbury Town, Coventry City, Rotherham United, Cardiff City, Blackburn Rovers, and Boro, where he enjoyed a successful stint.

The former England youth international has now committed to Hull City with a three-year contract, including an option for an additional year.

Sheffield Wednesday’s hopes of signing Arsenal striker Mika Biereth have been dashed as he is set to make a permanent move back to Sturm Graz instead. Despite the Owls’ interest in bringing in the 21-year-old to strengthen their squad, recent reports confirm that Biereth will not be joining them, opting for a return to the Austrian Bundesliga. This decision comes after the promising forward netted nine goals in 22 games last season, catching the attention of the Hillsborough club. Biereth, who has yet to make a senior appearance for Arsenal, has gained valuable experience on loan spells at various clubs, including Sturm Graz. Sheffield Wednesday will now have to regroup and search for a new striker as they prepare to face Plymouth Argyle without their desired signing.