There's nothing better than a deal that turns out to be value for money – especially in football. Pompey have had a fare few down the years and we've picked out 25 of the very best...
9. Lassana Diarra
Purchased for around £6m in January 2007, he helped Pompey win the FA Cup and qualify for the Uefa Cup before being sold to Real Madrad for £20m a year later. One of the best to ever play for the club. | PA (Press Association) Photo: Nigel French
10. Sylvain Distin
A fine acquisition on a free transfer from Man City in 2007 before he was sold to Everton for £5m two years later when Pompey hit financial difficulty | Freelance Photo: Will Caddy
11. Jermaine Defoe
Joined from Spurs for circa £7.5m in January 2007 and was sold back a year later for double that fee. | Freelance Photo: Jonathan Brady
12. Arjan de Zeeuw
Signed from Wigan on a free transfer in 2002 and was a key member of the Division One title-winning side. Rejoined the Latics for a nominal fee in 2005. | Freelance Photo: Tony Marshall