Middlesbrough and Sunderland will have to remain patient if they decide to press ahead with their interest in Manchester United striker Alan Smith.

The 26-year-old England international is currently on holiday as speculation over his future continues with the north-east duo heavily tipped to fight it out for his signature.

He will return to seek assurances over his future at Old Trafford, where he still has two years remaining on his contract.

The player is keen to stay to fight for his place, but he could be available at the right price as Alex Ferguson prepares for another assault on the Champions League and the club's defence of their Barclays Premier League title.

Neither Middlesbrough nor Sunderland have commented on speculation they are among the clubs trailing the £6million-rated former Leeds frontman.

However, it is understood Boro are ready to formalise their interest as manager Gareth Southgate attempts to remodel his strike-force.

Sunderland chairman Niall Quinn declined to reveal the identities of the Black Cats' targets last week after acknowledging their pursuit of Preston's David Nugent.

But manager Roy Keane's relationship with Smith means he would have a head start should they commit themselves to the race for his signature.

The player said last week: "If the manager tells me he wants me, I'm there for him.  If he says he doesn't, it's time to move on."

Both Boro and Sunderland have made strikers a priority for differing reasons as they prepare for the new campaign.