ALAN SMITH has been told by Manchester United: Youre not
getting a new contract. That will trigger a bidding war with
Spurs, Everton, Middlesbrough and Aston Villa all keen to land
him.
The England frontman, 26, wanted to extend his stay at Old Trafford
with two years to run on his current agreement. But now it seems
United are ready to sell. The Red Devils have spent £48million
since the end of the season on Nani, Anderson, and Owen
Hargreaves and want some cash back.
Smith, who earns around £50,000 a week, signed for United in a £7m
switch from Leeds three years ago. He had a renewal clause in his
original deal which entitled him to a rise after two years at the
club. But Smith waived that because he was injured at the
time.
His agent, Alex Black, approached United to start talks this
summer. But there was a stony silence until club chief executive
David Gill came back with a firm no this week.
Smith has an open mind over his future. He has previously
considered moving abroad to Spain or Italy. But, with so much
interest from other Premiership clubs, he will have no problem
getting a bumper deal in this country.
But Black said: Alan remains contracted to United for the next two
years so, unless the club decides to sell him, he intends to
stay.
