
Portsmouth are on the verge of completing the signing of Hayden Matthews from Sydney FC, according to Football Insider.
The 20-year-old Australian centre-back is set to arrive in England on Tuesday to finalize a £1.3 million move to Fratton Park, subject to a medical later this week.
Pompey have been pursuing Matthews since the summer, having had multiple bids turned down by Sydney FC. However, the Championship strugglers now appear set to land their man, bolstering their defensive options as they battle to climb out of the relegation zone.
Long-Term Target Finally Secured
John Mousinho’s side has prioritized Matthews for some time, and the young defender will bring much-needed energy and versatility to a Portsmouth squad sitting 22nd in the Championship. Despite their league position, Pompey are just one point from safety and hope the Australian international will strengthen their backline for the second half of the season.
Matthews has spent his entire senior career with Sydney FC, making 36 appearances for the club. Known for his composure and leadership at the back, the 20-year-old represents a significant investment in Pompey’s survival campaign.
Thomas Waddingham Also Set for Fratton Park
Portsmouth are also set to bolster their attacking ranks with the arrival of Australian striker Thomas Waddingham from Brisbane Roar. The 19-year-old is expected to undergo a medical later this week after Pompey beat off competition from Sheffield Wednesday and Queens Park Rangers to secure his signature.
Waddingham has netted four goals in 11 appearances for Brisbane this season, adding to the seven he scored during his breakout 2023/24 campaign. The young forward has already made his mark on the international stage, debuting for Australia’s U23 side in 2024.
A Busy Transfer Window for Portsmouth
Matthews and Waddingham join a growing list of January signings for Pompey, with Isaac Hayden (on loan from Newcastle) and Rob Atkinson (on loan from Bristol City) already brought in this month. Mousinho’s side has clearly prioritized squad reinforcements to fight off relegation and build for a more stable future.
Site Opinion
Portsmouth’s ambition in this transfer window is clear, and landing a long-term target like Hayden Matthews is a statement of intent. Investing £1.3 million in a young international centre-back highlights the club’s commitment to building a squad capable of competing in the Championship. Similarly, the addition of Thomas Waddingham provides depth to their attack and shows they’re not shying away from making moves to ensure survival.
However, both players face the challenge of adapting to English football in a high-pressure environment. For Matthews and Waddingham, the stakes are high, but their talent suggests they could be key figures in helping Portsmouth climb the table. If these signings deliver, they may lay the groundwork for a brighter future at Fratton Park.
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