text: Negotiations to make a fight between Paul Smith and Andre Ward are set to be concluded this week, with the Liverpool super-middleweight set to meet one of boxing's biggest talents on June 20. Sportsmail understands discussions are virtually finalised for the summer showdown, with a formal announcement of the fight expected imminently. Elements of the deal are still being rubber-stamped and Ward’s WBA world title is unlikely to be on the line. However, the fight, which will be staged in Oakland, California, will run over the 12-round distance. Liverpool boxer Paul Smith (left) is in line to take on Andre Ward on June 20 . Ward (right) has won all of his 24 bouts but has not fought since defeating Edwin Rodriguez in November . It is a huge opportunity for Smith but an even bigger task against a fighter who outclassed Carl Froch in 2011. Smith, 32, has lost back-to-back world title challenges in Germany against Arthur Abraham, albeit in controversial circumstances in the first of those fights when a wide decision was handed to Abraham from a close bout. Smith has lost his last two world title challenges to Arthur Abraham (left) of Germany . Ward defeated Carl Froch in 2011 and could be set for a rematch if he beats Smith . Smith's hope this time round will be that Ward, usually so slick and brilliantly accurate, has diminished through inactivity. The 31-year-old, an Olympic champion and winner of all 27 of his professional fights, has not fought since November 2013. That period of absence will add a fascinating dimension to a fight that will catch the attention of Froch, who would postpone retirement for a home rematch against Ward.
target: Paul Smith is set to face Andre Ward in Oakland, California on June 20 .
  Liverpool fighter is not expected to challenge for Ward's WBA world title .
  Smith has lost back-to-back world title challenges against Arthur Abraham while the American is undefeated in 27 games .