Portsmouth manager Paul Hart is close to completing the signing of former Fulham and Southampton goalkeeper Antti Niemi on a free transfer, signalling the end of David James’ Fratton Park career.
Niemi has bags of Premier League and international experience and the 37-year-old is a free agent, making the deal both cheap and straightforward.
However, Portsmouth’s fans will be concerned that, whatever the merits of the Finnish goalkeeper, the move will likely herald the exit of James.
Niemi retired from the game six months ago and has more recently been concentrating on coaching.
However, Hart has been impressed with his fitness and feels confident about returning him to the cut and thrust of Premier League action.