Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp is poised to hijack Steve Sidwell's loan move to Sunderland after travelling to London for talks with the former Reading midfielder.

Chelsea will not let Sidwell leave until the end of the month because they need him as cover for African Nations Cup duo Mikel John Obi and Michael Essien.

Sidwell, 25, has started only seven Premier League games since his free transfer to Stamford Bridge in the summer.

He will join Pompey on a six-month loan with a view to a permanent move at the end of the season.