Cambridge United striker Sam Smith is a reported transfer target of Portsmouth

Cambridge United forward Sam Smith has been linked with a move to fellow Sky Bet League One club Portsmouth.

The striker was one of the leading lights as the U’s secured their third tier status during the final few weeks of the season, culminating on Sunday with a memorable volley against Forest Green Rovers for what was his seventh goal in the previous nine games.

With his contract due to run out in the coming weeks, Smith spoke of his love for United once safety had been confirmed at the weekend but stopped short at committing his long-term future to the club.

And according to The Portsmouth News, the 25-year-old could be offered the opportunity to join Portsmouth on a free transfer.

Pompey boss John Mousinho, who played alongside Smith at Oxford United in 2018, is said to have travelled to watch the forward play for United away at Burton Albion last Wednesday.

Smith, who ended the 2022/23 campaign with 14 goals to his name to go alongside the 21 that he scored during the previous term, is one of a number of United players who will be out of contract at the end of June.