It is understood the Teessiders have formalised their interest in the £6million frontman as a series of clubs line up to offer him the chance to re-launch his career.

Neither Boro nor the Smith camp were shedding any light on the 26-year-old's situation.

The former Leeds player has been linked with a number of clubs in recent weeks with Boro, Portsmouth and Sunderland all being touted as potential destinations, while Newcastle have played down suggestions they too are on his trail.

However, Smith, who is currently on holiday in Florida, while admitting he may have to consider rebuilding his career away from Old Trafford, has not given up hope of persuading Sir Alex Ferguson he has a future there.

Boro's pursuit has been ongoing for several days now, although while United may be prepared to listen to what they have to say, it is understood a move to Teesside would not be his current first choice.

Smith is expected to make a decision on his future after returning from his holiday, but with strikers of proven quality currently in demand, he may find himself at the centre of a tug of war.

Boro have already signed Tuncay Sanli and Jeremie Aliadiere, but with Ayegbeni Yakubu a target for Pompey, could yet need to find a third.

Despite publicly stating their intention to hang on to the Nigeria international, there is a feeling the Teessiders might be prepared to do a deal at the right price two years after investing £7.5million to take the 24-year-old from Fratton Park to the Riverside.

Meanwhile, manager Gareth Southgate has admitted he does not expect his job to get any easier as he prepares for his second season in charge.

He told the club's official website, www.mfc.co.uk: "There is a clear difference between being a player and a manager, and that's something I have had to come to terms with during the course of the season.

"Yes, it has been difficult, but I don't expect next year to be any easier.

"We want to progress from what we have already done. It was certainly a transitional season of getting used to the role.

"But we have to improve and that will bring its own pressures and problems.

"It has certainly been an education. There are situations I have been involved in that I would never have encountered.

"It has been a real fascinating life experience and I have enjoyed the challenge.

"There are days when you go home, shake your head and wonder why you do it.

"But I have to say that every morning after, I have woken up wanting to get back into it and keep improving things, and that tells me I'm hooked to it already."

Tuncay's departure from Fenerbahce has left his club looking to fill a sizeable gap, and Brazilian legend Zico, the club's manager, admits he will be difficult to replace.

He told the club's official website, www.www.1907fener.com: "Everyone should thank Tuncay for everything he has done for Fenerbahce.

"He always tried to do his best for the team. I cannot comment on his decision about leaving Fenerbahce. All I can say is that he will be missed deeply.

"We will definitely need a player who is brave and engaged like Tuncay. I am sure that they will be missed a lot."