Portsmouth have struck a loan deal for Stoke City defender Ibrahima Sonko.
But Pompey will not be able to confirm the switch without approval from the Football League as they are operating under a transfer embargo.
Boss Steve Cotterill said: "He's a big, strong and very powerful defender.
"I've followed him for a while and I thought he did a fantastic job at Reading.
"He's been a bit unlucky during his time at Stoke and hasn't had too many first-team opportunities, although he did spend time on loan at Hull last season.
"He just needs to get back playing football.
"The deal is done and we're just waiting for the okay from the Football League."
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