PORTSMOUTH, August 15, 2008 (AFP) - Portsmouth sold Portugal midfielder Pedro Mendes to Rangers for three million pounds (3.7 million euros) and signed Charlton winger Jerome Thomas on a season-long loan on Friday.

Mendes, 29, agreed a three-year contract after passing a medical at the Scottish club, who were desperate to make a big signing to appease their fans following the departure of Carlos Cuellar to Aston Villa earlier this week.

Former Arsenal trainee Thomas, 25, arrived at Fratton Park in time to feature in Sunday's Premier League opener at Chelsea.

Harry Redknapp swooped for Thomas after deciding his team needed a wide man with pace to complement new striker Peter Crouch.

Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie told the club's website: 'Jerome's a young player that Harry has always liked. Harry has been looking to add a quick wide player, something that's important when you've got someone like Crouchy up front.'