Stoke stopper seals Pompey switch

(GSM) – Portsmouth have agreed a deal with Stoke City to sign Senegal defender Ibrahima Sonko on a season long loan. But Pompey are now awaiting confirmation from the FA as they are currently operating under a transfer embargo.

Sonko, 29, has made nine appearances on loan at Hull City last season.

Portsmouth manager Steve Cotterill told the club’s official website: “He’s a big, strong and very powerful defender. I’ve followed him for a while and I thought he did a fantastic job at Reading.

“He’s been a bit unlucky during his time at Stoke and hasn’t had too many first-team opportunities, although he did spend time on loan at Hull last season. He just needs to get back playing football.

“I spoke to him before we flew out here to the USA and hopefully he’ll be able to come and join us on tour. The deal is done and we’re just waiting for the okay from the Football League.”