Smith: Leaving Leeds will be a wrench

Alan Smith paved the way for his reluctant Leeds exit by pleading for understanding from Elland Road fans.

Smith and his advisers held talks with managing director David Richmond yesterday over the England striker's inevitable summer move.

But Smith, a long-time Newcastle and Manchester United target, admitted: 'I hope everyone understands if I have to leave.' Leeds are resigned to losing striker Mark Viduka and goalkeeper Paul Robinson as well as Smith, and have instructed agent Philip Morrison to find buyers.

Richmond, likely to be the only board member to remain if millionaire fan Steve Parkin installs a new £20mIllion regime, said the meeting with Smith was routine.

He said: 'Lots of meetings like this take place at this time. There's nothing sinister. It's a chat about what's happening, what Alan wants, and where the club is going.' Newcastle targeted Smith, 23, in the January transfer window, as Sportsmail revealed, and chairman Gerald Krasner has since confirmed that his £40,000-a-week wages will be unsustainable. Birmingham City may also be interested.

Director Peter Lorimer said: 'I'm sure the board will do everything in their power to keep Alan. But he has his England career to consider and aspires to win trophies.'