City Midfielder Lands New Deal

Manchester City have handed Wales midfielder Matt Smith a lucrative new deal which will keep him at the Etihad until at least 2023.

The talented 19-year-old was out of contract next year but the Citizens have big hopes for the academy graduate, who has spent this season out on loan at Dutch side FC Twente.

City have received glowing reports back on the youngster, and, also starring for his country under national boss Ryan Giggs, has further increased his list of admirers.

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Smith’s pay is believed to have been boosted to around £15,000-per-week, which represents a significant pay hike for the Redditch-born defensive screener.

City could look to send Smith out on loan to a club in England next season, with no shortage of takers willing to offer him a regular starting berth. Club bosses have a wealth of talent coming through their youth ranks and wanted to protect against Smith being able to walk away on a free transfer next year.