Sheffield Wednesday raid Rotherham United for impressive new signing that turned down Championship for Owls

The Star reported earlier this month that the 30-year-old forward was on the club’s potential wishlist heading into next season, and now it’s been confirmed that he’ll be joining the Owls.

Smith’s future has turned into a bit of a saga in recent weeks, with his Millers manager, Paul Warne, seemingly making peace with the fact that he might be moving on – however this week he appeared more confident of sorting out a deal for him to stick around.

Now though, Wednesday’s announcement has put paid to that, with the big frontman set to be donning blue and white in 2022/23.

A statement on the club’s website read, “Coveted hitman Michael Smith will join the Owls on 1 July upon the expiry of his contract with Rotherham United.

“The prolific marksman significantly bolsters Darren Moore’s options in the final third and brings with him the tag of a proven goalscorer.

“Smith played a key role last time out for the Millers, who secured automatic promotion to the Championship whilst lifting the Papa John’s Trophy at Wembley.”

Smith turned down offers from the Championship, including from his current club, Rotherham United, in favour of making the switch to Hillsborough, and will no doubt be looking to hit the ground running with his new teammates.

He became the fourth signing of the summer after Ben Heneghan, David Stockdale and Will Vaulks, while Michael Ihiekwe has also now agreed to come on board.

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