So here we are yet another transfer window in England, and once again the rumours are back, Alan Smith is set to return to Elland Road or is he?
Ever since Alan Smith departed Leeds United, for some team across the Pennines, rumours have been rife every transfer window that the Leeds lad will return to his boyhood club. Most Leeds fans were pleased that the whispers of a return had ended, but there is a new twist to the tale.
Bookmakers SkyBet announced last night that Smith's odds to return to Leeds had dramatically changed to 1/5 on for a return to the club he spent seven years at. Some bookmakers have also suspended betting, suggesting the deal is pretty much done.
If the transfer saga eventually comes to an end, Smith will have a lot to prove to Leeds fans who don't want to see him in a Leeds shirt again. It seems the Leeds faithful are split 50/50, but Smith's no nonsense approach could tempt some fans to sing his name once again. The reported deal also looks an expensive one for Mr Bates, with Leeds paying £15,000 of his wages for one year, until his Newcastle contract ends.
At 30 Smith certainly has plenty of years left in him to compete and help take Leeds to the next level, however with his constant injury problems it could be a total waste of time. Smith would certainly make a difference in the middle of the park, but until I see the deal complete I can't help but think it's just another rumour.
Have your say on the matter and let us know whether you think Smith should return to Elland Road? Feel free to leave opinions.
Should Alan Smith return to Leeds?
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