Breaking: Portsmouth closing in on former Cardiff and Norwich man as second summer signing

The Blues have stolen a march on their Championship rivals for the in-demand winger and are hoping to complete the free transfer swoop.

It would represent a three-year deal, reflecting their high regard for the ex-Norwich attacker who has not been short of admirers this summer.

John Mousinho’s former Oxford United team-mate has been a long-time target, even before his match-winning display in the League One play-off final.

Pompey have had to be patient in their pursuit of the 29-year-old, but the move has developed significantly since the end of last week to the point where they are confident they can now land him.

If they can pull it off, it would represent an eye-catching signing, with Murphy a former Premier League player who once fetched an £11m fee when he joined Cardiff.

His career has been hampered by injury, but he netted eight goals in his last 18 appearances last season, including netting twice in the 2-0 play-off final victory over Bolton.

Pompey have already signed right-back Jordan Williams from Barnsley, who joined on the opening day of the transfer window.