Pompey close in on Holmes signing

The winger last night returned home from a week-long holiday in Ibiza.

Negotiations with the 25-year-old’s agent have been continuing in his absence as the Blues thrash out a deal.

Guy Whittingham’s interest in Holmes has been long-standing, while the former Barnet man has made no secret of his desire to move to Fratton Park.

Matters are now expected to develop upon Holmes’ return as the Blues manager puts the finishing touches to his League Two squad.

Whittingham said: ‘It’s a bit quiet at the moment.

‘On the player front, it’s a case of people being away and discussing matters with other people. That applies to a number of things we are looking to do at the minute.

‘It’s just that lots of people have lots of other things to do during this time of year.

‘With Ricky, I believe he has been away on holiday but is now back.

‘We’ll just have to see how things go.’

Rotherham, Southend and Burton Albion are just three of the clubs who have also shown interest in Holmes this summer.

Pompey have been at the head of the queue, though, with the player having held discussions at Fratton Park last month.

Concerns over a foot injury aggravated in February have held up any potential move for the Blues.

However, Holmes is adamant he is now fully recovered.