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Portsmouth's John Utaka attracting interest from France, Campbell also on his way?

Reports from France suggest that Portsmouth winger John Utaka could be returning to Ligue 1 with St Etienne, who are believed to be monitoring his availability. The Nigerian has struggled with injuries this season, and upon his return failed to make much of an impact, so could be available from Fratton Park.

Utaka arrived at Portsmouth from French football, where he had been playing initially with Lens and then with Rennes. The Nigerian was snapped up by Pompey for a deal believed to be around the £7 million mark in 2007/08, and made a solid start to his Premiership stint striking up a good partnership with his compatriot Kanu hitting five league goals in the process.

This season has not been as fruitful with just four starts, and a further 14 coming from the bench as Utaka has struggled to bounce back from injury.

St Etienne are looking for some striking reinforcements after an immensely disappointing season, which saw them only avoid the drop to Ligue 2 by the skin of their teeth on the final day. Their attacking problems were further compounded when main striker Ilan announced his intention to quit to join Olmpiacos.

Utaka’s availability now that St Etienne have been credited with an interest may well alert other French clubs, who are looking for forward options.

Another who could be heading for the Fratton Park exit is Sol Campbell. Currently out of contract on the South coast, Campbell has declared his intention to sign a new deal but the terms on offer are significantly reduced in comparison to his previous contract forcing the former Arsenal and Tottenham defender to reconsider.

The hesitation on the part of Portsmouth has seen Club Brugge and FC Basle emerge as surprise candidates to sign up the former England centre-back. Whether either can make a tempting enough offer in terms of the quality of football and financially remains to be seen.

Posted by Walter Townsend on Wednesday, 17th June 2009

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