Portsmouth keen on summer transfer raid for Sunderland player after loan stint in Scotland | OneFootball

Nectarios Triantis has impressed at Hibernian - could he be plying his trade in the Championship next season?

Portsmouth are interested in rivalling Hibernian in the race to sign Sunderland midfielder Nectarios Triantis when loan spell with the Edinburgh-based side comes to an end.

The 21-year-old Australian has enjoyed a breakout campaign north of the border, and while Hibs are preparing a permanent offer, the south coast side have reignited their interest from 2024.

The then defender-turned midfielder joined Hibs on loan from Sunderland in January 2024 after struggling for minutes in the Championship. Since then, he has gone on to flourish in the Scottish capital in a holding role in David Gray's engine room.

Portsmouth rejoin Nectarios Triantis pursuit but face stiff Hibernian competition

With the end of the season nearing, Hibs sit third in the Scottish Premiership with three games to go, a position that would earn them a Europa League qualifier spot.

According to the Northern Echo, manager David Gray sees European football as a potential clincher in convincing Triantis to push for a permanent move.

Speaking to the outlet, Gray said: "He's contracted to Sunderland, isn't he, so we will wait and see exactly what happens. But I think he's done really well.

"He's certainly benefited from coming here... and the potential of European football next year is something else that he can add to his CV."

As per the Daily Record though, Portsmouth have re-ignited past interest and are keen to bring Triantis to Fratton Park in the near future.

Looking at the future of Triantis through a Portsmouth lens, a factor to consider regarding a potential move to the south coast is the growing Australian contingent.

Thomas Waddingham, Hayden Matthews, Jacob Farrell, and Kusini Yengi are all recruits from down under currently on the books at the club, and Triantis could add to that further.

Despite potential European football in Edinburgh, Portsmouth could represent a fascinating option for the Aussie youngster.

Any move to the club could be seen as tempting as John Mousinho's side are aiming to progress further up the Championship standings after securing their status for another term.

Sunderland's play-off fate will play a huge part in any Nectarios Triantis decision

Despite the strong interest, any deal for Triantis will depend heavily on the developing situation at Sunderland.

Should Regis Le Bris guide the Black Cats to the Premier League via the play-offs, the club may be more open to selling players on the fringes, as in the case of Triantis.

Remaining in the Championship, however, could see the Aussie as a versatile option ahead of another possible promotion push next season.

Having arrived at the Stadium of Light as a defender, Triantis' transformation into a composed, press-resistant midfielder has added value to his profile.