Smertin moved from French side Bordeaux to Chelski for a cool 3 and a half million last summer, and if Smertin agrees to join Portsmouth on a permanent deal, it will all rest of Chelsea's evaluation of the player, as Portsmouth are unlikely to be in a position to bid such a fee for the player, despite the finances survival in the Premiership this term has bestowed upon the club.
Turkish international Muzzy Izzet - who has said he will leave the relegated midlanders during the summer break - is another target high on Harry Redknapp's wanted list, but will face competition from a host of other clubs for the experienced 29-year old - that, and his wages will top that of Portsmouth's current high earner, believed to be Eyal Berkovic.
Portsmouth have also been linked to defender Martin Keown - currently bidding for another Championship medal - who it is suspected is surplus to Arsene Wegner's plans at Arsenal.