Walsall boss Smith agrees to take Brentford job

Walsall boss Dean Smith has agreed a deal to become Brentford’s new manager, sources have told TEAMtalk.

Brentford have been searching for a new head coach since Marinus Dijkhuizen’s departure at the end of September.

Lee Carsley has been in charge since then stepping up from his role in the Development Squad, but despite an upturn in results the former Republic of Ireland international has signalled no interest in taking the job on a permanent basis.

A number of names have been linked with the Griffin Park hotseat, with Swansea City assistant manager Pep Clotet having held talks with the club only for the deal to break down.

Smith is highly regarded within in coaching circles having impressed at Walsall on a shoestring budget.

The 44-year-old has guided Walsall to fourth place in League One this season and also took the club to their first appearance at Wembley last season in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

Walsall recently tied down Smith to a new deal after Rotherham tried to lure him to the club to replace Steve Evans.

However, the chance to move up to the Championship with ambitious Brentford has been too good to turn down for Smith.

Carsley will take charge for the final time for Monday’s trip to Bolton, with Smith set to be in place for this weekend’s clash with MK Dons.