Pompey closing in on pre-season destination

However, Mark Catlin has warned supporters against booking flights and accommodation until the summer destination is confirmed.

There was no pre-season tour last summer, with Kenny Jackett lacking the timeframe to organise one following his June appointment.

Instead the Blues concentrated on remaining at the training ground, in addition to fulfilling friendlies.

This summer, having initially looked at Boston, Massachusetts, the club are eyeing Ireland.

It is a destination favoured by Paul Cook in the 2016 pre-season – now Jackett is seeking to follow suit.

Catlin said: ‘I would like to stress absolutely nothing has been confirmed for pre-season – and as soon as it is we will get that information out to fans so they can make plans.

‘We’ve looked at various places in America but it was proving very, very cost prohibitive to get to the best places.

‘Predominantly it is the manager’s choice and – after looking at the budget for it – that idea was dismissed.

‘Kenny has been to Ireland before so we are currently looking there.

‘The pitches are fantastic, facilities are fantastic, loads of clubs go out there and it is cheap to get to. It ticks a lot of boxes.

‘However, don’t go booking your flights to Ireland just yet because nothing has been confirmed.

‘I am just being open, honest and transparent in telling fans that is where we are looking but I have to stress nothing has been formally agreed.

‘We are talking with different facilities and hotels at present. It might change, at this moment nothing is confirmed.’