Newcastle ready to loan Alan Smith out

Newcastle are ready to let Alan Smith leave the club on loan, according to The Mirror.

Smith has struggled to hold down a regular first-team place in recent seasons and he could be set to leave St James' Park in a bid to gain match practice.

West Ham have been touted as a possible destination as Hammers boss Sam Allardyce signed Smith for Newcastle when he was manager there in 2007.

His former club Leeds have also been linked with a move for the 30-year-old.

A possible stumbling block to any move could be the former Manchester United player's wage demands.

Newcastle are keen for any interested clubs to subsidise a substantial part of Smith's £60,000-per-week contract.

Smith made just fourteen appearances for Newcastle last season and his input this term has been limited to one substitute appearance.