Portsmouth's midfield gap narrows with Odin Bailey signing

Portsmouth, preparing for their first Championship season, identified a need for a versatile midfielder to bolster a thin middle‑field after promotion, and sealed that gap with the signing of 26‑year‑old Odin Bailey on a three‑year free‑transfer deal after he left Stockport County at the end of the season.

Odin Bailey featured in Stockport County's League One play‑off final defeat to Bolton at Wembley in May, his last appearance for the Hatters. The match marked the end of his spell with Stockport before moving to Portsmouth.

Bailey joined Stockport from Salford City in 2023. He accumulated 140 appearances and scored 12 goals, and was part of the squad that won the League Two title in his first season at the club.

Pompey boss John Mousinho said, "Odin is a versatile player who joins us following an excellent season at Stockport." He added, "I'm excited to start working with Odin as we continue our preparations for the new Championship campaign."

The midfielder arrives on a free transfer, making him Portsmouth's first signing of the summer. His three‑year contract reflects the club's early planning for the upcoming campaign.

At 26, Bailey brings a blend of experience and youth to a side stepping up to the Championship. His modest tally of 12 goals in 140 games offers a potential midfield scoring option.

The deal underscores Portsmouth's intent to address midfield depth ahead of the new season. Bailey's versatility is expected to aid the club as it adapts to the higher league.