On this day: The Ghanaian powerhouse who was targeted by Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp

The Ghanaian defender was high on the Blues boss’ summer shopping list as he looked to strengthen his squad.

Just days after booking their place in the FA Cup final, Redknapp acknowledged a central defender was a priority because of an obvious lack of cover in the position, while doubts continued over Sol Campbell’s future.

And having watched the Rennes powerhouse in Ghana’s Craven Cottage friendly against Mexico a fortnight earlier, Mensah emerged as a genuine target.

Redknapp told The News at the time: ‘I like him. I’ve watched him quite a bit, but I think there are a few other clubs interested in him.

‘I’ve been watching quite a lot of players for next season.

‘He’s one of those players to look at.

‘Centre-half is a problem. When Noe Pamarot’s not fit we haven’t really got anyone to back up Sol and Sylvain Disitn. We’re short.

‘We started the season with a load of central defenders.

‘We had Dejan Stefanovic, Andy O’Brien and none of them would ever let you down – they would do a good job for you.

‘But they weren’t playing so we let them go.’

Reports also suggest the Pompey boss had Senegal and St Etienne centre-back Moustapha Bayal Sall watched.

Pompey were unsuccessful in their pursuit of Mensah, with the player instead moving to Lyon of 8.4 million euros in the summer of 2008.