Portsmouth have bolstered their defensive options by signing Sunderland centre-back Aji Alese on loan until the end of the season. The 25-year-old joins Fratton Park with the club looking to strengthen a backline that has been stretched by injuries and absences.
Born in Islington and raised in Romford, Alese is of Nigerian descent and eligible to represent both England and Nigeria internationally.
Comfortable on the ball and physically commanding, he brings Championship experience to Portsmouth, having featured regularly in Sunderland’s squad in recent seasons.
Portsmouth manager John Mousinho expressed his satisfaction at securing the defender’s services, describing Alese as a player who “fits exactly the profile of what we have been looking for.”
He added: “He’s a strong defender who is also comfortable on the ball and has experience of playing Championship football. We are short on centre-backs at the moment, and he will immediately strengthen our options.”
Sunderland director Kristjaan Speakman also commented on the loan deal, praising Alese’s professionalism and patience.
“Aji has been incredibly patient and worked diligently to prepare himself for this next opportunity,” Speakman said. “The Championship is a league he’s familiar with, and this move is the ideal step for him in the second half of the season.”
Alese’s arrival at Portsmouth comes at a crucial stage of the campaign as the club seeks to consolidate their position in the league.
With his blend of physicality, technical ability, and top-flight experience, the young defender is expected to make an immediate impact and provide stability at the heart of the Fratton Park defence.
The loan deal provides Alese with an opportunity to showcase his talent consistently, while Portsmouth gain a versatile and battle-tested centre-back to navigate the remainder of the season.
