AFC Wimbledon are reportedly eager to secure the future of one of their standout performers this season, with talks ongoing to sign Alistair Smith on a permanent basis following his impressive loan spell from Lincoln City.
The midfielder has become a vital cog in Johnnie Jackson’s team throughout the 2024–25 campaign, making 47 appearances in all competitions. With six goals and four assists to his name, including a recent strike in the win over Doncaster Rovers, Smith has more than justified his loan move and is now firmly on the club’s radar for a permanent transfer.
From Mansfield Roots to Wimbledon Recognition
Smith began his career at Mansfield Town, coming through their academy and enjoying loan spells at Loughborough Dynamo and Frickley Athletic. He made his senior debut in 2018 in the Football League Trophy and later had further loan spells at Kettering Town and Altrincham.
Eventually, signed permanently for The Robins in early 2021. His performances earned him a move back to the EFL with Sutton United in the summer of 2021, where he impressed enough to win the club’s Young Player of the Year award in 2022–23, capturing the interest of Lincoln City.
Smith joined The Imps last summer and was a key figure under Mark Kennedy, but quickly fell out of favour after they changed manager, leading to his loan switch to AFC Wimbledon in July 2024 — a decision that has proven mutually beneficial.
Smith Settles at Plough Lane
The 25-year-old’s deal with Lincoln City is set to expire this summer, and Wimbledon are now looking to swoop in and complete a free transfer. The Dons had initially hoped to land him permanently last summer, but Smith opted for a loan arrangement in order to assess his options at the end of the season. Sources suggest the player has now settled well at the club and is open to staying on, with talks believed to be progressing positively.
Wimbledon see the potential signing as a key part of their long-term rebuild, and believe Smith could step up into League One, where he already has experience. With his contract at Lincoln expiring, the opportunity to add him without a fee is considered too good to ignore.
Writer’s view
Securing Smith would represent smart business for Wimbledon. At just 24, he’s already shown leadership and tactical discipline beyond his years. With no transfer fee required, it’s a low-risk, high-reward move for a club looking to climb the League Two ladder with a settled squad and clear identity. If the deal is done early, it could set the tone for a busy and positive summer at Plough Lane.
