Chris Smalling has had a roller coaster of a career with Manchester United, where he went from being one of the most commendable defender in the side to someone whose name on the team-sheets just frustrated fans. And with lack of playtime under Ole last season complemented by increase in competition with arrival of Harry Maguire – It was time for Chris to see beyond United.
There came a settlement as Smalling was drafted to Italy on temporary move, as Italian giants AS Roma signed the England international on a year-long loan deal.
Initial Italian Impact
Smalling was soon joined by his former Manchester United team-mate in Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who arrived from Arsenal on loan as well after falling off the pecking order under Unai Emery.
Smalling started his season with the Giallorossi putting in some eye-catchy performances in his five bouts between Serie A and the Europa League. And he has had a big impact on the squad, infact he impressed so much that the reports by Gianluca Di Marzio claim Roma are already working on making the deal permanent next summer.
According to papers, the initial contact between Manchester United and Roma has taken place and representatives could meet in next few weeks to try and achieve common ground.
Roma want to organise a deal with much time in their hands to get the best of deals they can out of the Red Devils.
End?
Chris Smalling has been a presence in the heart of the defence for the Reds from Manchester, making 323 appearances for Manchester United after joining from Fulham in 2010.
Crave another familiar face…!
Paulo Fonseca’s Roma currently sit sixth in Serie A, with 13 points after eight games. But are in bit of injury crisis and the Capital club have probably approached Jack Rodwell on a short-term deal at the Stadio Olimpico.
Rodwell was spotted at Roma’s training ground as he prepared to undergo a medical in a shock move to Italy.
