Ex-Man Utd star Chris Smalling linked with shock Roma exit after four years with huge January transfer lined up

CHRIS SMALLING could be see his time with Roma come to an end after four years with the Italian giants.

The former Manchester United star made the permanent move to Rome back in 2020 after spending the season prior on loan with the club.

And despite his time in the Italian capital being a success, it appears that it could come to an end in the coming months.

According to Gazetta dello Sport, Roma are understood to be willing to listen to offers for the 33-year-old in the January transfer window.

It is said that clubs are from the Saudi Pro League are considering a move for Smalling and Roma would be happy to entertain their interest.

Although there would be a number of stumbling blocks for Jose Mourinho’s side should they try and facilitate a deal.

Firstly Smalling has just signed a new contract with Roma that ties him down until the summer of 2025.

And secondly it would require the Serie A club to bring in two new centre-backs in the January window in order to cover for Smalling going forward.

However it is reported that Roma are still open to the idea of selling the Englishman in spite of this.

Smalling has been a regular feature for the club since his arrival and has made 146 appearances and scored ten goals for the Italians.

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But the temptation of a move to the Middle East could prove too much for him too with the ex-England international now heading into the twilight of his career.

Regardless of where his future lies it is understood that nothing will be decided until he returns to the pitch from the tendinitis that has kept him out for most of this season.

Smalling may not be the only big name to swap the Stadio Olimpico for Saudi Arabia either with Paulo Dybala also reportedly of interest to the growing league.

While manager Mourinho has also been linked to a role in the Saudi Pro League joining the bosses that have already taken up jobs over there such as Steven Gerrard and Slaven Bilic.

Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk