The Pompey boss underlined his desire to keep the former Portugal international in the wake of talk of a move to Rangers.

The Blues have rubbished that and Redknapp has insisted the midfielder is a big part of his plans.

With Sulley Muntari on his way to Inter Milan and the Blues manager keen to cash in on Sean Davis, Mendes is now seen as a key player.

That's a significant turnaround, with the 29-year-old seemingly on his way out at the end of last season.

But Mendes came in for the FA Cup final and has started every match in pre-season.

Redknapp revealed Pompey have not received offers for the player – and were not welcoming any.

He said: 'There's been no offers for Pedro, but we are not looking to sell him.

'He came in for me and played in my Cup final team last season.

'He played a big role in that game, so there is no reason why he won't still be a part of things here.

'I thought before the Cup final we don't keep the ball as well without Pedro.

'We can pass the ball better with him in the team.

'He is a proper footballer and has always shown that for us.'

Pompey chief executive Peter Storrie put talk of Mendes moving to Rangers down to agents.

He said: 'I do not know where it's come from.

'Pedro is part of the squad and Harry definitely wants him to stay.

'There's nothing in it. I think it's just agents stirring again.'