Varney Signing Confirmed

07 July 2011 17:44
Derby striker joins on a three-year-deal. Portsmouth have confirmed the signing of Luke Varney from Derby County for an undisclosed fee reported to be £750,000. The 28-year-old spent last season on loan at Blackpool and scored 5 goals in 30 appearances for the Tangerines. In honesty, his scoring record hasn't been great since he was banging them in for Crewe Alexandra as a youngster. He moved from Crewe to Charlton for £2 million in 2007 but only scored 10 goals in 57 appearances before being loaned to Derby who signed him permanently. The move to Pride Park wasn't successful as Varney could only muster a single goal in 12 appearances for the Rams. He was slightly more successful when Sheffield Wednesday borrowed him as he netted 11 goals in 43 appearances before the loan move to Blackpool last year. Given his scoring record, I'm not sure just how profitable Pompey's latest addition is going to be. Varney has always had potential but it'll come as no surprise to see Derby fans delighted that he has gone. Though perhaps Steve Cotterill can use his powers of man management to get the best out of Varney. As a front man with pace, his presence should also benefit Dave Kitson who performs much better with a strike partner. Staying on the subject of Blackpool loanees, it is reported that Pompey have made a £1 million bid for Jason Puncheon. The 25-year-old is currently on the books of Southampton but he seems to want away from St. Mary's with his agent stating that he would be interested in a move across the M27. With Premier League clubs also rumoured to be chasing his signature, it seems that Pompey will face stiff competition for Puncheon and I would be surprised if he comes to Fratton Park despite not being wanted at St. Mary's. But stranger things have happened....

Source: FOOTYMAD