Championship rivals Wrexham eyeing late swoop for top championship star

Wrexham have reportedly joined the race for Portsmouth fan favourite star as the January transfer window edges towards a dramatic conclusion at Fratton Park.

With the clock ticking down to Monday’s 7pm deadline, Pompey are bracing themselves for a frenetic final stretch of business. John Mousinho’s side are expected to be active at both ends of the market, with recruitment and departures both very much on the agenda over the final day and a half.

The Blues have already been assessing possible additions, with Luke Graham and Gustavo Caballero among the names firmly on their radar. At the same time, Mousinho is also considering trimming his squad to stay within the Championship’s 25-man limit. Players such as Tom McIntyre and Jordan Archer have been mentioned as potential exits, while further fringe figures could yet follow as Portsmouth look to create space and balance their group ahead of the second half of the campaign.

Championship rivals circle Devlin

Amid that backdrop, fresh reports suggest Devlin could be attracting late interest from Championship rivals Wrexham. Transfer specialist Alan Nixon has claimed the ambitious Welsh outfit are monitoring the 22-year-old as they seek to strengthen their defensive options before the window shuts.

According to the report, Phil Parkinson has identified two possible targets for the right-back role, with Aston Villa’s Kosta Nedeljkovic currently viewed as Wrexham’s preferred option. However, should their pursuit of the Serbian defender fail to materialise, Devlin is believed to be high on the Red Dragons’ shortlist as an alternative.

Wrexham sit sixth in the table and remain firmly in the promotion picture, yet they are still to make a January signing despite being linked with several high-profile moves. That lack of activity suggests the club could yet spring into life late in the window, particularly as Parkinson looks to add depth and quality for the run-in.

Devlin’s importance at Fratton Park

For Pompey, losing Devlin would not be straightforward. The Northern Ireland international has been one of Mousinho’s most reliable performers this season, cementing himself as first choice at right-back and holding off competition from Jordan Williams.

The former Glentoran prospect has featured 25 times in all competitions during the current campaign, playing a key role as Portsmouth battle to stabilise themselves in the Championship. Saturday’s emphatic 3-0 victory over West Brom moved the Blues four points clear of the relegation zone, underlining the importance of consistency and continuity in Mousinho’s back line.

Devlin’s progress has already been recognised by the club. In March 2025, he signed a new long-term contract at PO4, committing his future until the summer of 2028. That agreement reflected both his development and Portsmouth’s belief in his ability to perform at Championship level.

Since arriving on the south coast in July 2023, Devlin has quickly grown into a fan favourite. His energy, versatility and work ethic have made him a popular figure in the stands, while his tactical flexibility allows Mousinho to deploy him in a number of roles across the right side.

A proven performer for Pompey

The three-cap Northern Ireland international has now clocked up 86 appearances for Portsmouth in just over two-and-a-half seasons. He was also an important part of the squad that lifted the League One title in 2023-24, helping the club secure promotion back to the Championship.

With two-and-a-half years still remaining on his current deal, Pompey are under no immediate pressure to sell, and any late approach from Wrexham would likely require a convincing offer to even be considered.

Mousinho has previously spoken glowingly about Devlin’s attitude and development since arriving at the club. Speaking to The News after the defender signed his extension last year, the head coach explained why he values the full-back so highly.

“The contract is brilliant news and Terry has fully deserved it because of the performances he’s put in over the last year-and-a-half,” Mousinho said.

“It’s one of those where we brought him in as a young lad who could develop, and he’s developed into a player who can really affect things at Championship level.

“He’s very, very easy to manage – a delight really – because he works so hard, wants to improve his game and never gives me any issues.

“He’s a really hard worker and the way that he plays week in, week out is exactly what we see every day on the training pitch. He’s great to work with.”

Late drama possible

As deadline day approaches, Pompey supporters will be watching closely to see whether Wrexham turn their reported interest into something more concrete. While Devlin remains a key part of Mousinho’s plans, the unpredictable nature of the final hours of the window means nothing can be completely ruled out.

For now, Portsmouth are preparing for a busy finish to January, juggling potential incomings, outgoings and the task of protecting one of their most dependable performers as the Championship campaign enters a crucial phase.