Portsmouth have confirmed the signing of the 29-year-old on a three-year contract with an option for an extra year.

Portsmouth have signed Josh Murphy, a former Preston North End loan player, on a three-year contract with an option for an additional year.

The 29-year-old scored twice in Oxford United’s League One play-off final victory over Bolton Wanderers last season, propelling them to promotion. However, extending his tenure at the Kassam Stadium beyond his two-year contract was not possible. It has been speculated that Derby County and Blackburn Rovers are also interested in a move.

Pompey won the title last season, and Murphy’s transfer to Fratton Park reunites him with former United teammate John Mousinho. Following promotion, the former Preston midfielder released ten players and is developing a second-tier squad. Murphy netted eight goals in 31 appearances for Des Buckingham’s team last season. On the signing, the Pompey manager stated: “Josh adds a plethora of Premier League and Championship experience for starters. He was one of the best players in League One in the second half of the season, culminating in his Wembley brace that propelled Oxford to victory.

“Josh’s playing style has the ability to enthral spectators, so we’re overjoyed to finalize the deal. He’s a dynamic winger with goals and assists in his arsenal. There’s also blistering pace on each flank.”

The Lilywhites signed the winger on loan in the summer of 2021, but he only appeared in 12 games due to a calf injury. Murphy joined Oxford after his contract with Cardiff City expired that summer.