Portsmouth linked with late swoop for Manchester United defender | OneFootball

Portsmouth have entered talks with Manchester United over a move for defender Di’Shon Bernard, according to a report from the Daily Mail.

It is understood that Pompey will be looking to make a breakthrough in this particular pursuit before the window closes this evening.

Bernard spent the previous campaign on loan at Hull City where he made 26 appearances for the club in the Championship.

The 22-year-old also featured for the Tigers in the FA Cup and the League Cup before returning to Old Trafford ahead of the current term.

While Bernard would have been hoping to make an impact at senior level for United this season, he has not been given the opportunity to showcase his talent by Erik ten Hag.

Due to the presence of fellow centre-backs Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, Bernard has been forced to watch on from the sidelines.

Bernard’s only competitive appearance for the Red Devils to date came during their Europa League defeat to FC Astana in 2019.

With the defender’s contract set to run until 2024, Portsmouth may have to pay a fee if they are looking to secure his services on a permanent basis today.

The Verdict

When you consider that Bernard is facing an uphill task to force his way into United’s starting eleven in the future, it could be argued that a move to Portsmouth may be exactly what he needs at this stage of his career.

The defender will be confident in his ability to deliver the goods in League One given that he featured at a higher level for Hull last season.

Bernard will add some versatility to Portsmouth’s squad as he is capable of playing as a centre-back and as a right-back.

Providing that Pompey are able to get a deal over the line before tonight’s deadline, Bernard could potentially make his debut for the club this weekend when they host Barnsley in the third-tier.

Portsmouth will be determined to deliver a positive response to their recent defeat to Peterborough United in this upcoming clash at Fratton Park.

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