INTEREST in Chris Smalling is high after the defender’s star turn at Roma with Arsenal among the teams reportedly keen on his services.
The Gunners are joined by Inter Milan, Juventus and Smalling’s loan club in seeking a deal for the centre-back.
Smalling has been a big hit at the Olimpico – some fans dubbing him ‘Smaldini’Credit: Getty Images – Getty
When his stay with the Lupi expires in the summer, Manchester United expect him back at Old Trafford but are said to have already set an asking price.
A Roma bid of £13million has landed for Smalling, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, but the Red Devils want £17m.
Daily Mirror report on Arsenal getting involved in the race for the Englishman amid their own defensive struggles.
With William Saliba scheduled to arrive in the summer, Unai Emery’s successor may choose to dispense with the likes of David Luiz, Sokratis and Shkodran Mustafi given how they have failed to convince in North London.
And Smalling is emerging as a hot property across Europe having performed admirably in Italy.
The United outcast, 30, helped his side earn a useful clean sheet at Serie A leaders Inter on Friday night in Roma’s pursuit of a top-four finish.
With five wins in their last seven, the Giallorossi sit fifth and behind Cagliari only on goal difference.
The danger for Roma is that they will be priced out of the market by a Calcio rival.
Juventus are linked with letting defenders Daniele Rugani and Merih Demiral go, which could create a fresh demand for experienced back-ups such as Smalling.
Roma officially announce Chris Smalling loan with a list of missing children
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
