Nugent signed for Portsmouth from Preston in July 2007 (Getty)

Stoke City have been frustrated in their efforts to sign Portsmouth striker David Nugent and look set to abandon their bid to sign him on loan.

Manager Tony Pulis had declared his interest in the England international, but now appears to have missed out on a deal for the 22-year-old.

Pulis told BBC Radio Stoke: "We've tried all week to get him but I think Pompey want to keep him now."

Ipswich Town have also made enquiries to sign Nugent on loan this season.

Nugent is expected to stay at Fratton Park until the end of the season and fight for his place with the Premier League side.

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The Potters have made three new signings in March, with Chris Riggott, Carlo Nash and Jay Bothroyd all arriving at the Britannia Stadium on loan.

Pulis was happy with Wolves striker Bothroyd's debut in the 0-0 draw at Watford on Saturday, a result that took Stoke to the top of the Championship.

"He showed some good touches, especially in the first half," said Pulis.

"In the second half he went out of the game a little bit."