AFTER laying the foundations for a move south this term, departing Swindon Town striker Michael Smith says that it was always his will to seal a transfer to Portsmouth.

The 24-year-old, who scored 18 goals as Swindon reached the League One play-off final in 2014/15, joined Pompey on a two-year deal yesterday for an undisclosed fee, making a permanent switch to the side where he spent the second half of the season.

Last month, Town took up their option to extend Smith’s contract until the end of next term, allowing them to command a fee for the tall frontman, who they first signed from Charlton Athletic in early 2014.

His departure leaves this season’s top scorer Nicky Ajose – Charlton have reportedly agreed a fee with Swindon to sign the 25-goal hitman, with the move expected to be finalised next week – Jonathan Obika and Jermaine Hylton as Town’s recognised centre-forward options.

Miles Storey is due to join Aberdeen on July 1 following the expiration of his current deal at the County Ground.

Smith, who netted four goals in 16 appearances after joining Pompey on loan from Swindon in January, was keen on a return to Fratton Park and is chuffed to have clinched the move he desired.

“After my last game against Hartlepool, the manager (Paul Cook) did mention about trying to get something sorted for a permanent deal,” the striker told the Portsmouth News.

“I am delighted to get it finally over the line and signed.

“Having played at Portsmouth during the second half of the season, I knew what it was about. I’m aware of the stature of the club and it’s a club I want to be part of.

“I didn’t know what was going to happen at Swindon this summer and am delighted to be here.

“I can’t wait until Tuesday to see the boys again at training.

“I had another year left at Swindon so could have stayed, but the opportunity to return to Portsmouth was something I was keen on doing.

“As soon as I heard they were interested, I wanted to come back – there were no other clubs I was considering.

“Once I got that run of games, I thought I did alright last year. Working hard is a minimum. If you can’t have a good game, the least you can do is work hard.

“I have enjoyed working with the gaffer and the staff here and now can continue that relationship.”