By Paul Holmes
June 8 2002

Portsmouth have gone on a transfer blitz by signing 4 players in less than 24 hours. The 4 are Matthew Taylor (pictured), Arjan De Zeeuw, Richard Hughes and Vincent Pericard. Pompy boss Harry Redknapp has made no secret of his desire to strengthen the squad at Fratton Park and did not hesitate in signing the 4.

First signing was that of Vincent Pericard on loan from Juventus. Pericard is a striker hailing from Cameroon but has had little experience for the Turin giants but did play in the 1-0 victory over Arsenal in March.

Second signing was Arjan De Zeeuw on a free transfer from Wigan. The Dutch defender began his career in England with Barnsley before moving to Wigan where he became a fans favourite with his never-say-die attitude.

Redknapp's third signing was Matthew Taylor from Luton. The highly rated Taylor won rave reviews down the left side for Luton last season as the Hatters gained promotion and several Premiership scouts were said to be watching the 21-year-old.

The final signing of a hectic 24 hours was that of Richard Hughes from Bournemouth for a fee of £100,000. The Scottish midfielder was a trainee at Arsenal before joining Bournemouth.