Portsmouth have been long-term admirers of the defender and are now hopeful of landing him this winter as they look to preserve their Championship status.
The 20-year-old Matthews has played his entire career for Sydney FC. Prior to making his debut for the A-League team, he was a regular at several different young levels and progressed through the academy ranks.
In this latest update regarding his future this month, Football Insider claim John Mousinho’s side have made progress in their bid to lure him over to England. They say a fee in the region of £1.27million has been agreed between the two parties.
Portsmouth won 2-1 at home to Middlesbrough last time out after two goals by Matt Ritchie and they are sat in 22nd place in the table.
They are inside the drop zone on goal difference behind Hull City.
Portsmouth could see Matthews as a long-term option in defence.
The centre-back made his debut for Sydney FC in 2023 in a league fixture against Perth Glory.
He has since gone on to make 26 appearances in all competitions for the New South Wales outfit.
The youngster’s deal expires in the summer of 2027 but it appears he will be leaving before then now.
After receiving his first professional contract just a year ago, Matthews said on Sydney FC’s club website: “It’s a pretty surreal feeling and a dream come true. It’s something I’ve imagined since I joined the Academy and having been with the club for the past eight years it’s really special.”
As a Sydney FC fan since I can remember, I dreamed of playing on the field one day after witnessing Del Piero play at Allianz Stadium.
My debut was a really happy occasion for my family and me, and I truly enjoyed being out there and hearing “The Cove” in full voice.
Portsmouth now need to discuss personal terms as they try and persuade the player to move from home.
Mousinho’s men are back in action on Wednesday night with a clash against Stoke City at Fratton Park as they aim to build on their victory over Middlesbrough.
