Portsmouth are hoping David James can convince Manchester City defender Richard Dunne about moving to Fratton Park.
Despite the fierce competition for the City skipper, Pompey are hopeful of winning the race.
And James could be the key to luring Dunne to the south coast.
The pair became close friends during two-and-a-half seasons together at Eastlands, before the England keeper moved to Pompey.
They have remained in constant touch and James attended the Republic of Ireland international's wedding in Florence last summer.