Much-loved former Bristol City midfielder Korey Smith is set to be released by Championship rivals Swansea City, according to reports.
Wales Online state that the 31-year-old is expected to be among those who don’t have their contracts renewed at the Liberty Stadium this summer as Russell Martin continues to shape his squad.
Smith signed for the Swans in the summer of 2020 after six years with the Robins in which he accumulated 196 appearances and was part of the revered double winning side of 2014/15.
An immensely popular figure at Ashton Gate, Smith’s latter years in red were blighted by injuries but has made 72 Championship appearances for Swansea, under Martin and predecessor Steve Cooper, 48 as a starter and stayed largely injury free.
His availability will no doubt pique the interest of some City fans given he departed the BS3 at the end of the 2019/20 season when supporters were unable to attend matches, meaning the midfielder was never given a proper farewell.
City manager Nigel Pearson is also likely to be dealing in free transfers and value signings from lower down the pyramid as the Robins look to reduce their wage bill amid the threat of failing the EFL’s Profit & Sustainability rules.
There could well also be a vacancy in central midfield with Andy King’s contract up, and no indication as yet that the 33-year-old will have his option extended due to an injury-plagued time in the West Country.
Although well liked and respected by Martin, Smith has been gradually phased out over the course of the season as Swansea also look to cut salaries with the expectation they will recruit a younger, and more affordable replacement.
Swansea have finished the season in impressive fashion, with a nine-match unbeaten run as optimism grows of a play-off challenge in 2022/23.
Smith is not the only former City stalwart who’s likely to be on the open market this summer, either, with Marlon Pack likely to be released by Cardiff City and no indication Aden Flint will be offered fresh terms either as Steve Morrison launches a squad overhaul in south Wales.
SIGN UP: For our daily Robins newsletter, bringing you the latest from Ashton Gate
