Portsmouth and Oxford United are both struggling near the bottom of the Championship table and are actively seeking reinforcements to strengthen their squads.
Oxford, currently without a manager but expected to appoint former Luton Town boss Matt Bloomfield as Gary Rowett’s successor, have already started their January business with the loan signing of Tottenham attacker Jamie Donley for the remainder of the season. Sitting 23rd in the table, the U’s will hope Donley is the first of several additions before the February 2 transfer deadline.
Pompey are not much better off, occupying 21st place, just three points above Oxford. John Mousinho’s second season in charge has been a challenge, with injuries compounding their struggles.
Both clubs are keen to add defensive reinforcements to stem the flow of goals, and a familiar EFL centre-back has emerged as a target.
Former Middlesbrough defender Paddy McNair is reportedly on the radar of both Portsmouth and Oxford United, with a potential loan return to the Championship possible.
The 30-year-old Northern Ireland international currently plays for MLS side San Diego FC, who he joined in the summer of 2024 as a free agent ahead of the club’s inaugural season. McNair made 25 appearances across the league and playoffs as San Diego finished top of the Western Conference before falling to the Vancouver Whitecaps in the conference final.
McNair spent six years at Middlesbrough, making 198 appearances, and also had spells with Manchester United and Sunderland prior to his move to the Riverside Stadium.
With his contract in the MLS running until December 2027 and the 2026 season not starting until March, he could temporarily return to England on loan until the end of the season.
A regular for Northern Ireland’s defence since moving to the States, McNair would bring Championship experience to both Pompey and Oxford should a deal materialize.
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