A number of clubs are interested in signing Portsmouth defender Paul Downing this month, a report from The News has claimed.

Downing joined Portsmouth on a free transfer back in the summer of 2019 following his departure from Blackburn Rovers.

Since then however, the centre back has found opportunities hard to come by, making just 19 appearances for the South Coast, including only six in the league, and it now seems as though the defender could be set for pastures new this month.

According to the latest reports, Pompey have received enquiries from a number of as yet unnamed clubs about a possible loan deal for Downing until the end of this season.

It is thought that one League One club, and a League Two side who are chasing promotion, are both interested in a deal for the 29-year-old.

As things stand, there are around 18 months remaining on Downing's contract at Portsmouth, securing his future at the club until the end of the next season.

The player himself is also said to be open to a move away from Fratton Park, as he looks to return to playing more regular first-team football.

The Verdict

It does seem as though this could be a good move for Downing.

He hasn't had the opportunities he needs at Portsmouth, and given he had also struggled for game time prior to his departure from Blackburn, it has been a long time since he has played regular football.

As a result, a move away this month could be just what he needs, and given the space a deal such as this could free-up in Portsmouth's squad as well, this could certainly suit both parties.