Brentford make formal approach for Walsall manager Dean Smith?

Brentford have reportedly stepped up their search for a new manager by making a formal approach for Walsall's Dean Smith.

The Bees were rumoured to be closing in on the appointment of Swansea City chief Pep Clotet, but Garry Monk remains adamant that his trusted assistant is going nowhere.

It has now been suggested that Brentford have turned their attention to Smith, who has guided Walsall into playoff contention in League One this term.

According to Sky Sports News, discussions are to open up between all three parties involved, which could see the 44-year-old brought in as the successor to Marinus Dijkhuizen.

Lee Carsley will continue in his role as interim manager for the trip to Bolton Wanderers on Monday evening, having more than steadied the ship during his temporary spell in charge by guiding Brentford up to 11th place.