PORTSMOUTH have signed Swindon Town striker Michael Smith for an undisclosed fee.
The 24-year-old spent the second half of this season on loan with Pompey, netting four goals in 16 appearances, and has done enough to convince the south coast club to plump for his services on a permanent basis, with Smith signing a two-year deal at Fratton Park.
Last month, Town took up their option to extend Smith’s contract until the end of next term, allowing them to command a fee for the tall frontman, who they first signed from Charlton Athletic in January 2014.
The following season, Smith scored 18 goals as Swindon reached the League One play-off final.
However, this term, after a reported move to Sheffield United for a fee believed to be in the region of £600,000 fell through, Smith joined Barnsley on loan, albeit with a view to a permanent move.
But, after failing to find the net at Oakwell, Smith found himself back with Town in January this year before making an initial temporary move to his new employers Pompey.
Smith’s departure leaves this season’s top-scorer Nicky Ajose – Charlton have reportedly agreed a fee with Swindon to sign the 25-goal hitman, with the move expected to be finalised next week – Jonathan Obika and Jermaine Hylton as Town’s recognised centre-forward options.
Miles Storey is due to join Aberdeen on July 1 following the expiration of his current deal at the County Ground.
#Pompey have signed Michael Smith (@smudga17) from Swindon on a two-year deal pic.twitter.com/mOe3DzX0mQ
— Portsmouth FC (@officialpompey) June 23, 2016
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