Boro Step Up Smith Bid

Last updated : 29 July 2007 By Editor

Boro Chief Exec Keith Lamb:

"Our position hasn't changed. If you go back a few weeks it was well documented that we had agreed a fee with Manchester United for his transfer and were given permission to talk to Alan.

"Unfortunately Alan was away on holiday and when he came back he went straight off on tour with Manchester United, so we haven't had the opportunity to speak to Alan.

"But I'm sure that he is well aware of our interest and I'm sure that in the next few days the opportunity to speak to Alan will present itself.

"And if it's right for Alan and if it's right for Middlesbrough, then I'm sure that it's something that we might well conclude, you never know."

Boro manager Gareth Southgate:

"It's a situation that we are monitoring very closely.

"It's apparent that his future at Manchester United isn't certain and he falls into the category of being a quality player and a good character.

"That is of course someone that would interest us.

"It would appear that that situation is changing by the day, so if he wants to move on obviously the mindset changes."