Four Premier League clubs emerge as options for £20m-rated Man Utd defender

Four Premier League sides have reportedly registered their interest in signing Manchester United centre back Chris Smalling this summer. 

Smalling spent last season on loan with Roma after losing his place in the Red Devils’ side. He impressed during his 30 Serie A appearances, and was rated as one of the best defenders in Italy last term.

It is reported that Smalling would like to return to Roma, whether that be on loan or permanently.

However, United are reluctant to loan him out again and, so far, have been unable to reach an agreement with Roma over a transfer fee.

Therefore, Smalling may have to consider other options if he wants to play regularly next term. And according to a report on 90min, he will have the opportunity to do that in England.

They say that Newcastle, Everton, West Ham and Fulham have all shown an interest in signing the 30-year-old.

The first three clubs listed are all looking to strengthen their back lines after conceding 58, 56 and 62 goals in the league last season respectively.

Meanwhile, Fulham are preparing for their first year back in the top flight after being promoted. Taking Smalling back to Craven Cottage, where he previously played between 2008 and 2010, would be quite the signing for Scott Parker’s side.

Crucially, all four sides are also understood to be prepared to pay Man Utd’s asking price. That makes a deal more likely given United’s preference to sell.

Inter Milan, Atalanta and Monaco are also considering swoops for Smalling.

Smalling won’t be forced into unwanted move

The report adds that Smalling has told his parent club he won’t commit to a transfer he doesn’t want. That could mean he is prepared to wait in order to secure a return to Roma.

His fine form in 2019/20 also pushed him back into England contention after a three-year absence. He now has his eye on a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad for the European Championships in 2021.

The next year, then, is important for him if he is to achieve that goal and a move to a newly promoted side or mid-table Premier League side may not help him to do so.

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