According to Angelo Mangiante, of Sky Sport, Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling is very close to a permanent move to Italian side AS Roma. The English club want €20 million + €5 million in add-ons.
Roma Closing on Smalling Signing
Smalling is so close to Roma now
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 3, 2020
Manchester United Keen to Raise Funds
Smalling made 323 appearances for the Red Devils after making his debut 10 years ago. Becoming a regular starter in a strong and competitive squad. He achieved many titles along the way: Premier League and Europa League to name a few.
Since securing the services of midfielder Donny van de Beek from Ajax, Manchester United look keen to offload Smalling and build funds to continue their summer spending. Defence is a position that they could look to strengthen if the ‘right opportunity’ arises.
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted Smalling left the club for ‘regular’ football in the last campaign, something he may have to do again.
Successful Loan Spell in Rome
Smalling completed a successful loan in Italy last year. Becoming a favourite at Stadio Olimpico. Making 37 appearances and chipping in with 3 goals. He helped guide them to a fifth-place finish in Serie A. Gazette Dello Sport brandished Smalling “an absolute totem of the defence”. Before his loan move, Smalling found himself falling out of favour and destined for the door at Old Trafford. His inspiring performances have given him a new lease of life, potentially forcing England manager Gareth Southgate to reconsider Smalling’s current non-existent role in the national team.
The rumoured transfer fee for Chris Smalling would surely represent a good deal. Accordingly, there is confidence in the transfer going ahead, with both parties seemingly keen to make it happen. Smalling decided he wanted to return to Roma ‘long ago’. Signing Smalling, a player with bags of experience. would further enhance Roma’s strong squad.
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