Leeds United keeping tabs on injury-prone Newcastle United midfielder Alan Smith

Alan Smith, Newcastle United (Getty Images)

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Leeds United chairman Ken Bates has hinted at a possible move for former Elland Road stand-out, Alan Smith yet remains hesitant given the players possible wage demands and injury-riddled career.

Smith currently plays for Newcastle United, however after it was announced that the club would be willing to part ways with the 30-year midfielder, speculation about a possible return to his former club has surrounded the player.

Speaking to Yorkshire Radio, Bates revealed his hesitancy towards signing Smith. He stated: “We have to be careful because he has had a poor injury record and what we can’t afford to do is to sign a player who can’t play.

“We have at least eight more matches than in the Premiership.

“The other thing is his wages. He has been at Manchester United and Newcastle so his wages are in a stratosphere, probably well over the seven-figure medium, so if he did join us he would have to knock a nought off and maybe half it.”

However despite these concerns, Bates did not rule out a move for the midfielder, stating: “Nothing is certain and nothing is uncertain.

“I can confirm that we are continuing our quest for the right players and if he is fit Alan would certainly be a good addition to our squad, but that would need further investigation and consideration.”

Smith was one of Leeds United’s most promising players of the past few decades. After rising through the youth ranks, the midfielder made 172 appearances and scored 38 goals for the club, all the while leading the club to the Champions League semi-final in 2000-2001.

He then moved to bitter rivals Manchester United before ending up in the Newcastle.