Portsmouth saw Andre Dozzell leave upon the expiry of his contract, and Millwall’s Billy Mitchell should be the man to replace him.
Portsmouth have a crucial summer ahead after a nervy end to the 2025/26 season. Pompey looked destined for relegation, but just one loss in their last eight games saw them finish eight points clear of the bottom three.
The South Coast outfit have a tense few weeks ahead, though, with the future of head coach John Mousinho uncertain. That may not be the only replacement they have to make over the coming months, after Andre Dozzell’s exit was confirmed.
The 27-year-old agreed to join MLS side DC United when his contract expires this summer. Dozzell had a great season for Pompey, and he will undoubtedly leave a big gap to fill. Luckily for Mousinho’s side, there could be a free agent available ready to replace him.
Billy Mitchell looks likely to leave his boyhood club, Millwall, next month when his current deal ends. The 25-year-old could be the ideal replacement and offers plenty of Championship experience.
Portsmouth will miss Andre Dozzell
The 27-year-old had his best season for Portsmouth since arriving at Fratton Park in 2024. Dozzell started 36 matches this term, and he was heavily relied upon by Mousinho.
The former QPR man was one of the South Coast outfit’s most consistent players this term, and Pompey could well live to regret not extending his contract a lot sooner. That isn’t to say, though, that he isn’t replaceable.
Andre Dozzell’s stats for Portsmouth
| Games | Goals | Assists |
| 80 | 4 | 2 |
If Portsmouth can replicate Dozzell’s best attributes, like his ball retention, with someone who has equal experience, they could avoid any issues in midfield next year. Mitchell can be that player for Mousinho’s side.
Portsmouth should target Billy Mitchell
Mitchell made his senior debut for the Lions in 2019 and has since made almost 200 appearances for his boyhood club. He has been a constant in Millwall’s midfield over the past five years, and he has a wealth of experience playing in the second tier.
It’s a surprise not to see the 25-year-old renew his contract, but with the emergence of Derek Mazou-Sacko, the club may not have offered him his ideal terms. Regardless, he would be a solid signing for this level.
Mitchell does a great job of retaining the ball and does a lot of the dirty work for his team. He protects the back four superbly and, partnered with Ebou Adams, would offer a lot of security to the Pompey defence.
He would also allow a lot more freedom for the attacking players to thrive. Someone like Adrian Segecic could focus more on their contributions to the final third.
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