Preston North End have increased their interest in Portsmouth's Ronan Curtis as the 31st August transfer deadline edges closer, according to Portsmouth.co.uk.

In light of recent events, like the Lilywhites losing their first three opening matches of their Championship campaign, where Pompey have won all three, sees the club's pursuit of the Irishman intensify.

Danny Cowley's men are thought to be holding out for a fee in the region of £2 million for his signature, the 25-year-old has consistently been one of the standout players in League One for around three years now, it could finally be his long awaited introduction into second tier football.

Pompey were unsuccessful play-off semi finalists in 2018/19 and 2019/20, also missing out on the top six on the final day of last season. Sadly it looks as though Curtis may leave before the club reach the Championship.

Cardiff City and Blackburn Rovers have also been reportedly interested in his services, however the Bluebirds look an unlikely destination with Mick McCarthy exploring other avenues with shallower pockets than Tony Mowbray's men, who recently recouped a substantial fee through Adam Armstrong's move to Southampton.

It will be interesting to see how Preston get on in this chase, with North End currently only one place higher than Portsmouth in the Football League, with Pompey top of the third tier and Frankie McAvoy's men rock bottom of the second.

The Verdict

Curtis is clearly very happy at Portsmouth and has had numerous opportunities to leave the club in recent years, if the Cowley's can extend their winning run and continue to begin the season like automatic promotion contenders.

Then Curtis may be inclined to stay, with it looking more realistic that he could achieve Championship football by staying where he is.

The financial predicament of the club would come into the transfer with Pompey still looking to strengthen their squad in the final fortnight of the window. However, Curtis is their prized asset and Pompey will do everything in their power to keep hold of him.