English Premier League side Portsmouth have opened negotiations with Hearts of Oak to sign whizkid Torric Jibril from the Ghanaian club.

The 17-year-old, who is a target of Arsenal and Atletico Madrid, overly impressed Pompey in trials and the English FA Cup holders have opted to sign the talented youngster.

Jibril was supposed to have spent seven days on trials with Portsmouth but his stay was extended for further two weeks for his qualities to be scrutinized. His dexterity has astounded Portsmouth who have made an initial price offer but Hearts have made counter proposal seeking an improved deal.

Hearts of Oak officials have confirmed to Ghanasoccernet that they are in talks to seal the deal for the youngster.

A board member of the Ghanaian side who pleaded anonymity is confident an agreement can be found in the coming days.

Portsmouth sources have told Ghanasoccernet that Jibril will be farmed out to Belgian side Zultew Warengem to gain European experience and the necessary documents to play in England.

He will travel to England each month to train with the Portsmouth thereby accelerating his development into a world-class player.