Transfer Gossip: Portsmouth interested in ex-Aston Villa midfielder - but battling Hull, Doncaster, Blackpool and MK Dons

According to Football Insider, the Blues are one of several League One clubs interested in the midfielder.

Doyle-Hayes was released by Villa at the end of last season, having graduated through the Premier League side’s youth system and made three first-team appearances.

The 21-year-old had a loan spell at Cambridge in 2018-19 before enjoying a fine campaign at Cheltenham last term.

Doyle-Hayes scored once in 36 games as the Robins suffered League Two play-off semi-final defeat to Northampton.

The Irishman’s performances at Whaddon Road did not win him a new deal at Villa Park, though, and he departed the club in June.

However, Doyle-Hayes reportedly isn’t short of potential suitors as he remains a free agent.

Pompey are one side supposedly keen on the Republic of Ireland youth international, along with League One rivals Hull City, Blackpool, Doncaster Rovers and MK Dons.

As reported by The News, Kenny Jackett is keen to add a new midfielder to his squad following the Blues’ lacklustre start to the season.

The Pompey boss is looking for added creativity in his engine room, with his belief that it’s been lacking during the formative stages of the campaign.

After the Blues' 2-1 loss to crisis-club Wigan on Saturday, Jackett confirmed he was still in the hunt for new recruits.

Pompey have collected just two points from their opening three matches, with pressure ramping up on the under-fire Jackett.

Following the departure of Gareth Evans to Bradford last week, the Blues have two spaces in their squad available.

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