Manager addresses transfer interest in midfielder Birmingham City, QPR and Wrexham want

John Mousinho has revealed that Pompey remain in discussions with reported Birmingham City transfer target Joe Morrell.

Earlier this week it was claimed that Blues along with QPR and their League One rivals Wrexham had an interest in signing the Welsh midfielder. Pompey opted against taking up a extension clause in Morrell's contract but want him to remain at Fratton Park on different terms.

The 27-year-old's contract expires at the end of the month and he is free to speak to other clubs. He has been side lined with a knee injury since February and isn't expected to recover in time for the start of pre-season.

Pompey are hopeful that 37-time Wales international Morrell will stay with them as they prepare for their first season back in the Championship in 12-years. Birmingham and Wrexham do have deep pockets however whilst QPR will be keen to move up the table after Marti Cifuentes comfortably guided them to safety.

‘That is something which is still ongoing between the agent and the football club," said Mousinho to The News.

"We’ll probably have an update later on, closer to pre-season.

‘Joe is a fantastic player, I think there are some areas we have to make sure we get right with both him and Zak, we had reasons for not taking up their options. It’s just about getting that balance right.

‘Obviously with Joe we have the injury to contend with as well, but he is an international player and was excellent last season for large periods. 

‘He captained the side in the absence of Marlon as well. I regard Joe really highly and we will get the update on how it’s going.’