Pompey closing in on midfield duo

And two arrivals are pencilled in to be confirmed within the next 24 hours.

The Blues have lacked genuine wingers during Whittingham’s time in charge – a fact he is desperate to change.

So far, 10 players have committed their futures to Fratton Park since the last game of the season but none can serve as wide midfielders.

It’s something the manager is aiming to solve this week, and The News understands the signing of a left-winger will today be completed.

In addition, a player to operate on the opposite flank is also in Whittingham’s sights.

Although tight-lipped on his targets, the Pompey boss is hoping to swiftly correct that particular weakness in his developing squad.

He said: ‘I am looking for different sorts of midfielders to those we already have at the club.

‘They do not have to be wide necessarily but people who can work up and down the flank. They must have ability coming forwards but can also come back.

‘We are looking at players for both flanks and, at this moment, know where we are heading in terms of those targets.

‘We didn’t have width last season and need two creators on the outside – players who can also be flexible in other positions.

‘Last season we had Shaun Cooper, Liam Walker and Jed Wallace but they would see themselves as central-midfield players rather than on the left or right.

‘They did a great job for us, especially Jed – but he is not a winger.

‘We need someone who can help create in and around the 18-yard box and you also need pace everywhere.’