Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp is confident that the transfer of French striker Nicolas Anelka to Fratton Park is a gamble worth taking.

The 27-year-old ex-France international and former Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City forward is a leading transfer target for Redknapp, who is on the hunt for new players.

Redknapp is able to secure some big name signings after Alexandre Gaydamak recently became the sole owner of Portsmouth, with his former co-owner Milan Mandaric staying at the club as non-executive chairman.

Recent reports suggest Pompey have already offered £8.2 million (€11.5million) to Fenerbahce for Anelka, outbidding Bolton Wanderers who were showing interest in the Former France star.

Anelka, who has had many public bust-ups with many of his previous clubs has said that he would be willing to join Portsmouth with Redknapp, who is fully aware of the former Arsenal and Real stars reputation, with Anelka now carrying a tag of being a troublesome character to have in the dressing-room.

But Redknapp is not worried by Anelka's previous difficulties and is confident he would fit in to his Portsmouth squad.

“People have told me I would be mad to sign him, but I like Anelka because he's a real talent,” Redknapp is quoted as saying in The Daily Express.

“I had the same problem when I took (Paolo) Di Canio at West Ham. Everyone said I must be off my head, but he ended up being a legend at West Ham.

“Anelka is on another level. You have to take a few chances in this game and he is well worth the gamble.

“I can't say everyone will agree with me about him, but that is my opinion and I will take the blame if I am wrong.”

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