Pompey land Mwaruwari - report

Portsmouth have swooped to land Zimbabwe international Benjani Mwaruwari for £4.1m (€5.9m), according to BBC Radio Solent.

Pompey are reported to have agreed a club record fee for the 27-year-old Auxerre striker subject to him passing a medical.

“He’s quick and strong, can play and join in with other people,” Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp told the radio station.

“I spoke to Arsene Wenger about him last week. He told me if you can get him, get the next plane over there and bring him back.”

Mwaruwari had earlier revealed he would prefer a move to Fratton Park ahead of joining Wigan or Marseille.

“Although I signed a four-year contract four months ago, I think the Auxerre board wants to sell me,” said Mwaruwari, who has scored 19 goals in 72 matches for Auxerre – including one in last year’s 2-1 French Cup triumph over Sedan.

Speaking to BBC African Football, he added: “Portsmouth and Marseille are showing the greater interest.

“We are just waiting to hear, but Portsmouth would be best for me because I speak English, while I’m still struggling with my French.”