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Transfer: Mokoena to Pompey – It’s ‘official’

South Africa captain Aaron Mokoena is expected to become a Pompey player and join up with his new teammates this weekend, having been given extra time-off due to his international commitments.

Despite Mokoena revealing a few weeks ago he was set to join Portsmouth on a free transfer, Portsmouth were yet to confirm whether this was the case.

The mystery grew further as the rest of the squad returned to pre-season training without the 28-year-old midfielder, often labelled ‘the Axe’.

He is said to have signed a three-year contract, with the intention of having more first-team opportunities.

Mokoena’s agent, Ivan Modia, hinted interim manager Paul Hart played an important part in Mokoena’s decision making to join Pompey.

Modia also stated that his client is looking forward to beginning a new chapter in his career and remains optimistic Hart becomes Portsmouth’s full-time manager.

Speaking to The News, Modia said: ‘Aaron is flying in this weekend and is very excited about playing for Portsmouth.

‘There was interest from Wolves; they were keen to sign him to be an experienced member of the squad that will be in the Premier League this season.

‘But he decided to go to Portsmouth because it is a better challenge than Wolves. They have been in the Premier League for a number of years and the confidence Paul Hart has shown in him in their conversations was also key.’

Modia then went on to praise Hart’s managerial style, stating: ‘In fact, Mr Hart is the main reason why he is here. The manager is very straight and close to the players. He is smart and thoughtful, communicates well with the players and comes across as though he is also going to listen.’

According to Modia, Mokoena is keen to settle down quickly and show what he can do on the field of play, and match the club’s new-found ambition.

He said: ‘Mr Hart and Peter Storrie have told Aaron they want to move the club forward and he also wants to do the business.

‘He’s looking forward to the challenge and has already found a place to live in Portsmouth. He wants to be settled in as soon as possible and start showing what he can do.’

Before becoming an official Pompey player, Mokoena will first have to gain a new work-permit. Modia however, believes there will no problem in obtaining one.

‘The work permit is going to be fine. That’s in Portsmouth’s hands and they have to sign a couple of things,’ he added.

Modia went on later to say: ‘Aaron fulfils all the requirements; there is nothing to worry about there.’

When signed, Mokoena will become Paul Hart’s and Portsmouth’s first summer signing. Portsmouth will be looking to sign a number of reinforcements with a number of players leaving or having already left the club.

Mokoena can play either as a central defender or a defensive midfielder. With a number of defensive-minded midfielders already at the club, ‘the Axe’ has been cited as a replacement for the departed Sol Campbell.

Mokoena (pictured, left) in action for South Africa

Mokoena (pictured, left) in action for South Africa

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