Posted by By JOE APU on
Portsmouth boss, Harry Redknapp, has again confirmed his interest in Obafemi Martins and Sulley Muntari.
Portsmouth boss, Harry Redknapp, has again confirmed his interest in Obafemi Martins and Sulley Muntari.
Redknapp is desperately trying to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season and is considering moves for Internazionale striker, Martins and Ghana World Cup star, Muntari.
Udinese ace, Muntari, came to Redknapp's attention at the World Cup where he helped his country reach the second round.
Redknapp is a big fan of Muntari, but concedes it is difficult to bring in his top targets.
"Muntari is a player I like. I'm interested, but it's like with all these players - getting them is difficult," said Redknapp.
Portsmouth are also in the market for Martins, who looks set to leave Internazionale.
Martins is unhappy at Inter following the summer arrivals of Hernan Crespo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic and is expected to move on.
Newcastle are believed to be leading the chase for the pacey forward, but Portsmouth could rival the Magpies for his signature.
"I like Martins - he is a good player and would score goals in this league," added Redknapp.
"We are still short of bodies throughout the squad and I could do with getting another striker in. The board are backing me all the way."
Newcastle boss, Glenn Roeder, has confirmed his interest in Martins, but is concerned at reports that the player is older than he actually is.
Reports have suggested that Martins, who claims to be 21, could be at least six years older than his given age and Roeder insists the player's age will determine how much clubs are willing to pay for him.
"If any player that was 21 or 22 and had a value of 13 or €14 million was proved to be 27 or 28, there is no way he would have the same value," said Roeder.
"If there was a difference in age of that much, surely it has to be reflected in the price.
"We have to decide whether we believe what we're being told. Until such time that a birth certificate is seen, we have no proof other than a rumour or two.
"There is no definite proof that Martins is older than he is saying, so I have to be careful about what I say.
"But it's a bit unsettling to think you could possibly sign a player who's two or three years older than you think he is."