LUFC Newcastle demands scupper Smith return

Leeds United chairman Ken Bates admitted that Newcastle`s demands scuppered any chance of former player Alan Smith returning to Leeds.

Bates speaking on Yorkshire Radio said that the club and Smith were interested in a move, "We were interested in Alan Smith. Alan Smith was prepared to consider coming to us. He was on £3 million a year and Newcastle wanted a £1 million a year contribution. As I have said before, £1 million plus government tax equals £1.15 million, we cannot afford it, it is as simple as that. The result is of course that Newcastle have a player they don`t particularly want," admitted Bates.

Smith is on the transfer list at Newcastle as he enters the final year of his contract with the club.

Leeds have been linked with the Leeds born lad throughout the summer, who came through the academy system and played a major part in Leeds success under David O`Leary.

Smith missed the pre season game for Newcastle at Elland Road at the end of July with a reported injury.



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