EFL Analysis has learned that Middlesbrough have held talks with Michael Smith amid the striker leaving Sheffield Wednesday this week.
Sheffield Wednesday are struggling financially and have been placed under three separate embargoes in the last few months, one of which has been lifted.
Amid the chaos, which, as EFL Analysis previously revealed, is expected to include Danny Rohl leaving, several key Owls stars have departed.
Among those is Michael Smith, who, along with Josh Windass, had his Sheffield Wednesday contract terminated on July 17.
The 33-year-old will be available as a free agent, and we understand Middlesbrough are among the clubs keen.
Photo by George Wood/Getty ImagesMiddlesbrough hold talks with Michael Smith
As per our chief transfer correspondent, Graeme Bailey, EFL Analysis understands Middlesbrough have held talks with Smith.
The 33-year-old has interest from around the EFL and has been linked with the likes of Wrexham, Rotherham, Stockport, MK Dons, among others.
Smith made 41 Championship appearances for Sheffield Wednesday last season.
He finished as their top-scoring striker with eight goals and four assists with eight goals and four assists. The Englishman has featured a total of 161 times in the second tier, scoring 30 and assisting 11.
Tommy Conway was Middlesbrough’s top goalscorer in the Championship in 2024/25 with 13.
Photo by Cameron Smith/Getty ImagesMiddlesbrough in talks for three more signings
As well as Smith, the Teesiders have been in talks for several more players recently.
We understand that Boro have been speaking with Danny Ings, Callum Britain and Alfie Jones.
Ings hoped for a Premier League move following his West Ham United exit, while the striker also has suitors from the MLS.
EFL Analysis revealed earlier this week that Middlesbrough offered £1.75m for Britain, with Blackburn Rovers rejecting the deal as they believe he is worth £3m.