A deal has been agreed in 'principal' with Benarrivo - he just has to make up his mind whether he wants to live in Portsmouth. It seems that he is attracted by the bright lights of London and was disappointed when Franco Baresi refused to sign him last month due to calcification on his ankle. Arsenal, Bolton and Birmingham were all chasing the defender at some point and his capture - in a troubled right back slot - would truly mould Pompey's team in one capable of challenging for honours this season.
If he does join, Paul Merson will be one of the most impressed by the Italian's defensive prowess as he told the official site that Benarrivo is certainly one of the 'best defenders he's ever played against' This from a player who's played for England and in top level football for all his career - are we dreaming?!