The Nigerian hitman is set to seal a one-year extension to his existing agreement next week.

And the huge Blues favourite has been backed to fill the hole created by Peter Crouch's departure for Spurs.

Mark Viduka is on Paul Hart's hit list and is edging closer to arriving, while Amr Zaki remains a loan target.

Pompey are desperately short of attacking options after being forced to cash in on Crouch to repay existing debts.

But there is good news as far as Kanu is concerned, after he linked up with the rest of his team-mates in Portugal.

His representative, Samuel Okoronkwo, explained the new deal is all but complete.

He said: 'Kanu is in Portugal with the rest of the team. He would not be out in Portugal if he was not close to having a new contract.

'His presence with the team is sufficient expression of how close we are.

'There is a situation at Portsmouth being handled by Peter Storrie.

'But as far as my client is concerned though, his commitment to the club is total.

'Peter and I have had very productive discussions and talks are progressing very well.

'The understanding is there and the commitment is there. The i's will be dotted and the t's crossed shortly. I'm sure whatever is not finalised will soon be sorted.

'The conditions are right and both sides are comfortable with Kanu remaining at Portsmouth for another season.'

Pompey supporters have been dealt a succession of blows, with key players leaving this summer to generate much-needed finance and lower the wage bill.

Crouch was the latest to leave this week, leaving Hart short up front.
Okoronkwo believes Kanu is capable of filling Crouch's boots on a regular basis, despite his advancing years.

He said: 'Kanu is a gifted and talented player and will always do a good job for Portsmouth whenever called upon.

'His availability is not in question. Whenever Portsmouth require him he will be there for them.

'If Portsmouth need him every week in the Premier League he will be delighted to fulfil that role for them.'

Meanwhile, Pompey target Stephen Hunt looks certain to leave Reading after manager Brendan Rodgers indicated the midfielder has played his last game for the Royals.