But as we wait for number 23 to arrive, with Josh Griffiths edging closer to a Fratton Park switch, we’ve decided to take a look back at the players the Blues manager has turned to in a bid to achieve success on the south coast – and offered an opinion on whether they are or have been a hit or a miss.
Here’s the judgement we’ve made, with emergency keeper Jake Eastwood not included given the very brief period he spent on loan from Sheffield United.
9. Gavin Bazunu
Let's keep this simple. Last summer Bazunu signed on loan from Manchester City after a season at Rochdale. Today he's a £15m keeper after joining, ah hem, Southampton in the Premier League. That still hurts, but he's a keeper with a huge future ahead of him.
Verdict: Hit Photo: Graham Hunt
10. George Hirst
The Leicester loanee admitted he was contemplating ending is Fratton Park spell early as he initially struggled to reach the heights he hoped for. Pompey fans will be delighted he didn't, though, as the striker finished the season with 15 goals to his name. Both Danny Cowley and the Fratton faithful would love to see him back at the Blues this summer.
Verdict: Hit. Photo: Robin Jones
11. Mahlon Romeo
The Millwall loanee had a season of two halves. First half, he was superb. Second half, the wing-back was.... okay. That hasn't stopped him earning a move to Championship Cardiff, but it does prevent him from being a Cowley transfer hit.
Verdict: Miss. Photo: Graham Hunt
12. Gassan Ahadme
The fact the former Norwich triallist was out the door come January says it all.
Verdict: Miss. Photo: Jason Brown