Chris Smalling to make shock Roma exit with former Man Utd star to have medical before ending five-year spell in Italy

CHRIS SMALLING is on the brink of ending his Italian love affair, it’s been claimed.

The former England defender joined Serie A big boys Roma from Manchester United in October 2019 for a fee of £18million.

Smalling breathed new life into his career in the Italian capital, making 155 appearances for the Giallorossi.

But he’s set to move on to new pastures in the coming days as a move to the Saudi Pro League on the brink of coming to fruition.

Smalling, who has one year left on his contract at the Stadio Olimpico – is reportedly on course to join Al-Fayha.

The centre-back is set to undergo a medical on Monday ahead of the move.

Smalling was restricted to a mere 12 appearances for Daniele De Rossi’s side last season due to injury.

His lack of football last season sparked speculation he could leave Rome this summer.

But the veteran defender revealed to fans he was eager to extend his stay at the club.

When pressed about his future, he said: “I would like to stay at Roma.”

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Just a few weeks earlier, he said: “I’m feeling good.

“It’s no secret I’ve missed a lot of games this season, which is unusual for me.

“I am feeling fit, ready to contribute.”

“The ultras saw off the team with fireworks, flares, flags and chants at the Trigoria training ground this afternoon.

“There are very few clubs in the world who have a fanbase that can do things like that.”

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk