Portsmouth have confirmed their interest in Peruvian defender Juan Vargas but insist a transfer is far from completion.

Vargas belongs to Argentinian side Colon de Santa Fe, and reports suggest he could cost £1.6million.

The 22-year-old has caught the eye of manager Harry Redknapp, but Portsmouth are playing down expectations he will join the Fratton Park club.

Director of communications Helen Wood said: 'We are interested in the player but a long way from signing him.'

Meanwhile, Lomana LuaLua is backing fellow striker Benjani Mwaruwari to be a big hit in the Premiership this season.

Portsmouth's record £4.1million signing scored just once in 16 games last term after joining from Auxerre in January.

However he has struck three times in two pre-season games, after a knee operation in June, and LuaLua said: 'It is good to see `Benji' score some goals. It will boost his confidence and that is what he needs.

'He is a good player and we will see that from him when the season starts.'