Ex-Portsmouth striker's move to Eastleigh 'far from a done deal'

The former Pompey striker is not certain to join the National League side from Bognor, with the two clubs still to agree a compensation fee.

Smith was released from Fratton Park last year, having made two appearances for Kenny Jackett’s side.

The Warsash talent joined the Rocks on a permanent basis after spending the majority of the 2018-19 season on loan at the club.

Smith enjoyed a prolific season at Nyewood Lane. He plundered 26 goals during Bognor’s Isthmian League premier division campaign before it was declared null and void because of the coronavirus outbreak.

The 20-year-old told The News of his desire to climb back up the pyramid and return to the Football League. A switch to Eastleigh will see him one division below League Two.

However, Bognor boss Jack Pearce insists the move is yet to be finalised.

Because Smith is under 24 and the Rocks have offered him terms for 2020-21 not less than those he was on this term just finished, he has until the end of May to acceptor tell the club he does not accept them.

Pearce told the Bognor Observer: ‘We've been so far apart on the terms of a deal, not within a million miles. I'm not saying the deal won't be done but at the moment it's speculation. We're not near agreement.

‘I apologise to Eastleigh that this story has appeared in public - it shouldn't have.’