Rivals chase Prem star

Tuesday, 01/11/2011

Alan Smith is wanted on loan by both Brighton and Leeds United.

Smith, 31, is out of favour at Newcastle and out of contract at the end of the season.

The Magpies have no plans to renew his contract and would like his reported £60,000 a week pay off their wage bill.

Former club Leeds are keen to have the striker-turned-midfielder back at Elland Road but Brighton boss Gus Poyet hopes he can persuade the player to join Newcastle loan keeper Steve Harper on the South Coast.

Smith, bought from Man United for £6m in 2007, has had injury problems during his time at St. James' Park but stayed with the club even when they were relegated to the Championship for a season.

The vastly experienced battler is seen as an ideal player to boost the promotion hopes of both Leeds and Brighton.

• 

• Have your say