Portsmouth are close to securing a deal to bring Ryan Yates on loan from Nottingham Forest as Kenny Jackett looks to bolster his ranks for the second-half of the season.  

It’s been an incredibly encouraging start to the League One season for Pompey, who are looking to continue their rise back through the Football League with promotion to the Championship.

According to the Mirror’s live transfer blog (19/12, 11:51), an agreement is close with Nottingham Forest for the service of Yates, who finds himself way down the pecking order under Aitor Karanka after a summer overhaul at the City Ground.

The powerful midfielder recently signed a new three-year deal with the Reds, but has managed just one appearance this season, with Karanka’s vast options in midfield making game-time difficult to come by.

Rotherham United also have a long-standing interest in the 21-year-old, but League One Portsmouth are looking like securing a loan deal, which might become permanent if promotion is achieved.

Previously, Yates has excelled in the lower leagues on loan, featuring for both Notts County and Scunthorpe United.

Spells with the two last season brought 47 appearances across all competitions, with Yates returning an impressive eight goals in that time.

The Verdict

This would represent an excellent signing for Portsmouth heading into the New Year.

Yates has excellent presence in midfield and will be itching to prove himself after another snub at Forest.

He’s got experience of the promotion race from his time with Scunthorpe and will add so much to Jackett’s squad.

Thoughts? Let us know!