Harry Redknapp's ambitious plan to install one of Germany's top defenders as long-term successor to Sol Campbell looks like being scuppered by Jurgen Klinsmann.

The Portsmouth boss has been promised funds to try and challenge the established order at the top of the Barclays Premier League and has targeted Werder Bremen's Per Mertesacker as his next big signing.

But Klinsmann knows all about the 23-year old centre-back from his time as Germany's national coach and is widely expected to make him the cornerstone of Bayern Munich's defence next season.

"If it was Liverpool or Manchester United, Per might have given it some thought, but as things stand, he is looking forward to linking up with Klinsmann again," said a source close to the player.