With Wigan already out of the race for the striker because of a "silly money" price, Pompey boss Harry Redknapp has said that they will not do business at the £7million cost that he was quoted.
The Fratton Park club have been promised transfer money as part of a deal to sell 50% of Milan Mandaric's holding to Alexandre Gaydamark, but still do not feel that Ashton would represent a sound investment. Furthermore, they have just completed the signing of Polish international Emmanuel Olisadebe, so may have got the goalscorer they are after.
City fans will not be distressed to learn that another potential suitor for top-scorer Ashton appears to have fallen by the wayside.