LEE Smethills, Belle Vue's 19-year-old starlet who will be racing in Australia this winter, is a wanted man.

Premier League clubs Swindon, Berwick and Newcastle have made enquiries about taking Kearsley-based Smethills on loan.

He sees his long-term future in the Elite League with the Aces but feels he needs to continue his speedway education in the Premier League where he has spent the last two seasons on loan to Workington.

Aces boss John Perrin has thrown Smethills the chance of senior appearances next season when Premier League youngsters will be allowed to race at reserve for Elite League clubs.

Perrin said: ''I was very impressed with Lee's form at the end of the season and he is in my thoughts.''

Smethills, meanwhile, is preparing to fly out to Australia on Christmas Eve to ride for the Great Britain Under-21 side in a 10-match Test series.