Another door closes for Alan Smith
First Portsmouth. Now Newcastle. Has another door closed for “want-away” striker Alan Smith?
The England attacker is expected to leave Old Trafford after United refused to renew his contract and moved for Carlos Tevez.
Pompey boss Harry Redknapp described Smith as “terrific value” last month when signalling his interest in the player. But yesterday, he completed the signing of 22 year old England prospect David Nugent in a £6 million deal from Preston.
Portsmouth also expect to smash their transfer record with the £8million capture of Nigerian forward John Utaka from Rennes.
Newcastle were also alleged to be monitoring Smith’s availability but may now drop out of the bidding following Michael Owen’s admission that he will stay on Tyneside. The England frontman has a £9 million get-out clause in his contract but failed to ignite any interest from England’s top group of four.
“This club has so much potential - I want to help realise it,” he said. “Everyone knows that the fans and the stadium give Newcastle the foundations to become one of the biggest clubs in the country.
“There has been plenty of speculation about my future but I can assure Newcastle fans I didn’t start any of it. I believe these can be good times to be at Newcastle, which is why I’m more than happy to be here.”
Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce has Owen and new signing Mark Viduka and insists that he will not allow the sale of Obafemi Martins unless £13 million is offered. That could put off Arsenal and Italian clubs, forcing the Nigerian to remain, according to the Sun newspaper.
Everton and Middlesbrough are now said to be heading the queue for Smith’s signature if the England attacker decides to leave the champions.
