Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett is targeting Tranmere Rovers centre-back Manny Monthe, in a move that could bolster the defensive options at Fratton Park.

Reports from Portsmouth.co.uk is now linking Jackett to the defender, as he is known to be wanting a left-sided centre-back that can come in and improve his defence.

Steve Seddon was made Jackett's first signing of the January transfer window last week, by bringing the left-back in on loan from Birmingham City.

Monthe has made 28 appearances this season for the League One club, after joining them in 2018 and going on to help them achieve League Two promotion via the playoffs last season.

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The speculation surrounding the defender has now been fuelled after Micky Mellon snapped up Peter Clarke last week, but with the 24-year-old having signed a two-year contract at Prenton Park in the summer, Tranmere are in a strong position over the defender's situation.

Tranmere are believed to be demanding £750,000 for the defender, a fee which could see Portsmouth cool their interest if they are unable to agree a negotiable price for the former Forest Green Rovers defender.

The Verdict

With Tranmere demanding such a high fee for Monthe's services, this deal looks unlikely as Portsmouth will be unwilling to pay so much for a defender in the third tier of English football.

While the 24-year-old could be a good addition for Portsmouth, Jackett is unlikely to break the bank for a centre-back that is within the prime of his career and is a regular starter for Tranmere.