Portsmouth were not pursuing a deal to land the National League ace this winter as they pursued other signings.
The 22-year-old Tolaj has already made 34 appearances for Aldershot this season in all competitions, tallying 16 goals.
According to a story by The News, Hughes stated, “We weren’t targeting him, not at all. I have no idea where the rumours originated.
“I’m not sure if it’s because Haji Mnoga is obviously present in Aldershot, where we have been keeping a careful watch.” Richard Dryden, the deputy manager, is someone else I know rather well. However, at no recruitment meeting was the term truly ever debated internally.
Portsmouth man shoots down rumour
Tolaj has been in fine form this term for Aldershot and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him move to the Football League in the near future.
However, Portsmouth are well stocked up with options in his position right now as they chase down promotion to the Championship.
He joined his current club only last summer and has adapted well to life with the Shots but they will likely face a battle to keep hold of him down the line.
The former Switzerland youth international began his career at FC Sion before Brighton & Hove Albion enticed him to England in his youth in 2018.
Tolaj never played for the Seagulls at the senior level, but he did pick up experience playing on loan at Cambridge United, Salford City, and Dundee, all of which are located outside of the AMEX Stadium.
At the conclusion of the previous season, he permanently severed his links with Roberto De Zerbi’s team and has since relocated to Aldershot in the fourth division.
Hughes has destroyed Portsmouth’s connections, and as a result of their great start to the season, they sit atop League One.
They are four points ahead of Derby County in second place after their most recent 4-1 victory at home against Northampton Town. This weekend, John Mousinho’s team will go to struggling Carlisle United on the road.
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