According to the latest reports from Wales Online, Portsmouth have rejected two bids for their star winger Jamal Lowe. The Pompey man is wanted by the likes of Cardiff City, Leeds United, Middlesbrough, Wigan and Millwall. The reports mention that only Wigan and Millwall have made a concrete approach for the English winger and the latest bids which were rejected had likely come from them.
Reports mention that Portsmouth are valuing Lowe at around £3m. The winger had earlier reportedly made it clear that he wanted a move away from the club this summer. Therefore it is going to be an uphill task for Kenny Jackett to keep hold of his star man.
With Lowe entering the final year of his contract, we feel that the Pompey might have to agree to let the player leave if their valuation is met. That will be a big blow for the club as Lowe was a crucial player for them in the attacking third. The club does have an option to extend his contract for one more year, but that would be no good if the player doesn’t want to stay at the club.
Impact of Lowe at Fratton Park
The 24-year-old usually played down the right flank, and he came up with 17 goals in all competitions last season which helped Portsmouth reach the playoff semi-finals. They occupied the automatic promotion spots during the first part of the season, but the club tapered off after January.
Lowe’s direct style of play, ability to take on defenders and his pace and dribbling skills made him a joy to watch. What was even more impressive was his ability to score goals. Often wingers are guilty of doing the hard yards, but then they fail to find the right pass or finish off moves in the final third.
But Lowe was a constant goal threat for Jackett’s side. His defensive work rate was also a significant plus for the manager as the winger usually tracked back and helped his team in defence when not in possession.
Can Portsmouth keep him?
With clubs like Leeds United, Cardiff City and Middlesbrough interested, we think that the player’s head will turn as these clubs are likely to fight for Premier League promotion. The winger has already conveyed his feelings that he wants a move this summer, and it seems like it is only a matter of time before a club goes on to meet the winger’s £3m valuation. The fact that the 24-year-old has entered the final year of his contract means that Jackett is not in the best of positions to negotiate for his star man.
