Cash-strapped Bradford are desperate to off-load Ward from their wage bill and Redknapp hopes to clinch a free transfer and a cut-price contract.

Redknapp said: "He holds the ball up well, he's got a good attitude and he works hard. He's a good target man.

"There's nothing definite at the moment. He's only one of several players I'm interested in, but I do like Ashley Ward. I think he would be a good player for Portsmouth."

The Bantams may be prepared to let the striker go for free or even to loan him out and continue to pay half his �18,000-a-week wages.

City chairman Gordon Gibb said: "This is a financial decision on our behalf, but hopefully some of the money from this deal would allow the manager to bring in another striker to replace Ashley."

Ward added: "Nothing has been confirmed to me yet. I have only heard rumours and stuff through newspapers.

"However, it is obviously very flattering to be linked with the runaway leaders.

"Portsmouth have got two very wise heads down there in Harry Redknapp and Jim Smith and they are doing a terrific job

"I am happy at Bradford but, at the same time, it is very flattering and very nice to be connected with a move down south.

"A couple of seasons ago Bradford were in the Premiership and Portsmouth were nothing more than an average First Division club.

"It goes to show how quickly things can turn around in this game."

The Pompey boss added he thought a deal for Sherwood was still a possibility.

He explained an injury to the former Blackburn and Norwich man had held up any move, but said: "I think there's still a deal to be done."