Dons linked with former England striker Alan Smith

Dons could be about to complete a sensational deal for Newcastle United's Alan Smith.

The former England and Manchester United man has slipped down the pecking order at the Magpies and can play as a striker or in midfield.

He would fit the bill as the 'marquee signing' that Karl Robinson is hoping to bring to the club.

And Dons would pay a percentage of his wages to bring him in on-loan for the rest of the season.

Sources in the north-east believe Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is prepared to let Smith leave temporarily before he can be released from his contract in the summer.

Robinson is happy with his central midfield options so Smith would likely be used as a striker – the Dons boss has stated that he is looking for more goals in his team.

The signing would be a huge statement of intent for Dons as they plot promotion to the Championship.