Birmingham City have confirmed the transfer of midfielder Aliou Cisse to Portsmouth.
The Senegal captain had been expected to move to Palace on a loan deal until the end of the season – with the Eagles even announcing the move on their official web site yesterday.
But the proposed deal fell apart and Portsmouth have stepped in to pinch the player from under Palace’s nose.
Pompey have paid just £300,000 for a player that cost Birmingham £1.5m just two years ago, and have signed the midfielder onto a two-year contract.
However, Portsmouth have meanwhile seen one of their own transfer deals threatened at the last minute.
The Fratton Park club had been hopeful of signing Michael Carrick, after offering an improved offer above their previous £2.5m. But it now appears title-holders Arsenal have stepped in with a higher offer for a player who has also been coveted by Palace. Arsene Wenger is believed to be interested in snapping up Carrick as a cut-price replacement for Patrick Viera.
Mandaric told Sky Sports News, "I am unhappy with the situation. We have worked hard so don't want anything to spoil the deal." Palace fans know the feeling.