Portsmouth are set to step up their chase for a central defender as they chase Tranmere’s Manny Monthe.
The big defender is reported to be one of Kenny Jackett’s main targets this January with the South Coast club hoping to upgrade their defence.
Monthe has been a key figure at Tranmere since joining in 2018. The Cameroon-born defender was an important part of the side that won promotion from League Two last season and his dominant ability is attracting the attention of Pompey.
The fact he is left-footed is also thought to be a key reason Jackett wants his signature as it would add some much-needed balance to the back-line.
Tranmere are reportedly holding out for a fee of around £750,000 which could be a sticking point in any potential deal. He signed a two-year contract with the Super White Army in 2018 and Rovers will not want to see a key player leave without getting a decent return.
'We’ve seen the specialist and he’s said to just back off a little bit and get the swelling down. So, in terms of next Tuesday, that will be too soon for him now. '#Pompey erring on the side of caution over Jack Whatmough's returnhttps://t.co/C0XcGklFzH
— Jordan Cross (@pn_jordan_cross) January 3, 2020
Peter Clarke’s arrival at Prenton Park has fuelled speculation Monthe may be about to depart but Micky Mellon will be hoping to strengthen his squad so will make sure Tranmere only sell the 24-year-old if the fee is suitably rewarding.
Tranmere are currently sat in 21st place while Portsmouth are hoping for a promotion bid in 2020 with them sitting just one point outside the play-off places.