Portsmouth look to attacking option after missing out on Barnsley's Cameron McGeehan

The midfielder has agreed a permanent deal with Belgian top-flight side KV Oostende - the second player from last season’s Fratton Park playing rota to do so after Chrsitian Burgess’ decision to move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise.

It’s a blow to the Blues’ recruitment but perhaps not as disappointing as will be viewed in some quarters.

The News understands McGeehan was not Kenny Jackett’.s prime target as he searches for reinforcements in the middle of the park.

The Pompey boss is focusing his hunt on a more attacking midfield player for the new campaign.

McGeehan, although admired by Jackett, was viewed as one of the first back-up options on a lengthy list of targets.

The former Luton man, who is able to play as a number 10, was used in a deeper position in Jackett’s 4-2-3-1 formation after his loan arrival in January.

Still, news of McGeehan’s move to Belgium arrived as a surprise and will be seen as a cause of consternation among fans hungry to see new faces arrive this summer.

The 25-year-old made 17 appearances after joining from Barnsley in January, scoring two goals and producing some steady performances, if not reaching the lofty levels many hoped for.

McGeehan’s move also means his last kick as a Pompey player was the penalty miss in the play-off shootout defeat to Oxford United.

Pompey have recruited Lee Brown and Sean Raggett so far this week for Jackett’s fourth season at the Fratton helm.

The Blues have three spaces available in their squad for players over the age of 21, if the EFL wage cap proposals are implemented at tomorrow’s vote.

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