Leeds United’s failure to find the cash in order to sign Blues target Joe Ward is reported to be close scuppering the chances of the Whites landing the Portsmouth defender or midfielder. Neil Warnock’s club were believed to be heading the race having held talks with the 22-year-old soon after signing his former Pompey team-mate and close friend Jason Pearce.
Long-term admirers Town, Burnley and Crystal Palace are also all believed to have agreed a fee with Portsmouth’s administrator, variously claimed to be somewhere between £400,000 and £450,000.
Now Blackpool — who could be a Premier League side after today's Championship play-off final — are said to have submitted a written offer, while Sheffield Wednesday are also showing interest.
Ward is understood to be set to speak with the Seasiders and the Owls with his decision likely to be made at some point this week.
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