MANCHESTER UNITED gave another huge hint Chris Smalling is off to Roma permanently as he sat out their new-season photoshoots – while reportedly training alone.
The former England centre-back, 30, a Serie A loan star last season, is tipped to move before United’s Premier League opener at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Former England defender Chris Smalling seems on the brink of a permanent move from Man Utd to RomaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Old Trafford boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is likely to buy another centre-back, to add competition for Harry Maguire and Victor LindelofCredit: Getty – Pool
The final hurdle appears to be Roma trying to negotiate down United’s valuation of £15-20milion.
Smalling missed training last Tuesday and Wednesday as he discussed his future.
Then from Thursday he is said to have trained away from Ole Gunnar Soslkjaer’s first-team squad and done gymwork.
Smalling and his representatives are thought to be still talking about the terms of his departure from Old Trafford.
The former Fulham defender has known since last summer he is unlikely to feature in Solskjaer’s long-term plans.
But he still has two years left on his contract.
Newcastle, Everton, West Ham and Fulham have all been linked with the Londoner in recent weeks.
But Smalling revived his career so successfully in his year with Roma that the Italians are overwhelming favourites to sign him.
That would free up more cash for Solskjaer as he seeks another top class central defender, to push Victor Lindelof for his place alongside Harry Maguire.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
