We’ve known all summer that Ronan Curtis has a desire to be playing Championship football in the upcoming season.
Having established himself as one of League One’s premier attackers during his three years at Fratton Park, the Republic of Ireland international now wants to test himself at the higher level.
A departure won’t likely happen until later in the window, with the Blues putting a price tag of around £2m on his head.
Given how important Curtis has been for Pompey, Cowley will seek a replacement who can have a similar sort of influence.
Names will be earmarked, calls potentially already been made about who his successor could be.
We’ve taken a look at the players who could fit the bill for the Blues...
5. Harry Chapman - Blackburn
The 23-year-old was highly impressive on loan at Shrewsbury during the second half of last season, recording seven goals and three assists in 24 games. Chapman recently signed a new one-year contract at Ewood Park and is looking to impress. However, should be not be in Tony Mowbray's plans, perhaps he could even be used as a makeweight in any potential Ronan Curtis deal. Photo: Pete Norton
6. Shola Shoretire - Manchester United
Cowley's looking to utilise the loan market - and Shoretire could be one he looks to bring in. Although only 17, the England youth international is very highly regarded at Old Trafford. He's already made three first-team appearances and notched an assist in a pre-season win over Derby on Sunday. Photo: Nathan Stirk
7. Jaden Philogene-Bidace - Aston Villa
Another highly-regarded youngster who Pompey could target on loan. Philogene-Bidace netted five and created three goals for Vlla's under-23s last season, as well as making his first-team debut at Tottenham. He also bagged a hat-trick on his England under-19s bow in a friendly with Derby under-23s. The 19-year-old has been linked with the likes of PSG and Bayern Munich in the past. Photo: Catherine Ivill
8. Gavin Whyte - Cardiff
The Northern Ireland international earned himself a move to the Championship in 2019 but has struggled for regular chancea with the Bluebirds. Whyte was loaned out to Hull for the second half of last season and helped them capture the League One crown. That suggests he may be open to dropping to the third tier again, although Hull are supposedly keen again. With Cardiff one of the clubs interested in Curtis, that could well give Pompey an advantage if they were keen. Photo: Charles McQuillan