Portsmouth boss’ transfer revelation over Newcastle United winger amid intensifying homecoming speculation for ex-Swindon Town and Bournemouth man

That’s the belief of Danny Cowley, following the latest round of talk over a Fratton Park homecoming for the Gosport lad.

But the Blues boss admitted the winger’s Premier League wages make the likelihood of an imminent move to the club he started his career at unlikely.

Speculation of that happening has accelerated around reports Ritchie has been told by Newcastle boss Eddie Howe he can depart St James’ Park in January.

The 33-year-old has spent six years on Tyneside following a £12m move from Bournemouth, making 190 appearances in that time.

That stay appears to be nearing a close, with Ritchie’s existing deal coming to a close next summer.

The academy graduate has never hidden his desire to one day play for Pompey again, after leaving in 2011 following just 10 senior appearances.

Ritchie told The News in 2020 he believes he has ‘unfinished business’ with the club he emerged at, with his aim to play a meaningful role at PO4 before he hangs up his boots.

Cowley told how he’d loved to have the former Swindon man in his ranks, but isn’t sure that would work within his budget.

He does, however, see Ritchie back in royal blue before he calls time on his career.

Cowley said: ‘I’d like him, is that possible?

‘Well, we’d love to have Matt Ritchie.

‘I’m not sure we’d be able to cover his wages coming to Portsmouth, though!

‘That said, he loves the club and he’s been to a couple of games with his boys.

‘We’d like him - I think our xG would go up then and there will be no moaning about set-pieces!

‘I do think he will finish his career at Portsmouth, though.’