Portsmouth manager Kenny Jackett has insisted that there is nothing in the rumours linking the club with a move to sign Nottingham Forest youngster Ryan Yates.

The 21-year old had been recently linked with a loan move to Fratton Park after making just one appearance for Aitor Karanka's Forest side this season, with a move away from the City Ground looking ever likely in January.

Reports from the Mirror had claimed that the young midfielder was close to signing for the South Coast club, but Pompey boss Jackett has now firmly dismissed these rumours when speaking to Portsmouth News:

"No, he's not one we've enquired about. Obviously, he's a player we're aware of definitely - I would be disappointed if we weren't aware of all or most players. But no, there's nothing in that."

Yates was hugely impressive on loan for Notts County and Scunthorpe United last term, playing an integral role in the latter's play-off semi-final finish in League One. He has made just one appearance for Forest in his senior career after coming through the youth ranks at the East Midlands club.

Pompey currently lead the way in League One and sit five points clear of Sunderland in third position, though the Black Cats have two games in hand on the league leaders.

The Verdict

This is a huge, huge blow for Pompey.

Of course, Jackett knows what he's doing, but Yates would have been a fantastic signing for the Blues, and would have given them some much-needed depth as we approach a hectic Christmas period.

He is a solid figure in midfield who wears his heart on his sleeve - Jackett should reconsider this one.

Thoughts? Let us know!