According to a recent report published on the website of respected Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the Italian giants AS Roma are said to be lining up a bid to bring Manchester United star Chris Smalling to Rome permanently. The Englishman, currently on loan in the Serie A from Man United, has impressed since making his switch across the channel.
It has been suggested that Roma were preparing a bid in the region €10m, but that Manchester United are set on their asking price of €20m (via Gianluca Di Marzio). It is also claimed that the Manchester United chiefs met with the Roma staff to discuss this potential transfer, on Wednesday afternoon (via Gianluca Di Marzio). Although the Englishman has only spent a few months in Italy so far, he’s gradually developed into a real fan favourite.
What Did Chris Smalling Achieve For Manchester United?
Chris Smalling came through the Man United ranks after joining from Fulham in 2008. Formerly a product of the Millwall and Maidstone academies, the youngster was always seen as a bright defensive talent who could represent England one day. Although much was expected of him from a young age, nobody would’ve expected a club like United to move for him all those years ago. Since then, he’s won an FA Cup, two Premier Leagues and a Europa League as well.
Since making the switch, the Englishman has played in over 300 games for the Red Devils, but never really broke into the hearts of United fans, owing largely to his tendency to make silly mistakes. Careless giveaways and poor back-passes riddled his Manchester United career, and he was ridiculed for his performances on multiple occasions. Despite his best efforts, he was never really able to set himself as the number one at Old Trafford, and was finally loaned out at the start of the current season.
How Has Chris Smalling Fared So Far in Italy?
He made the move to the Italian capital at the end of August, and has since played in six Serie A matches for Roma. Not only has he been dominant in the air, he’s also provided the team’s defence with an added degree of leadership and experience. His positioning and work-rate seem to have improved drastically, and although he tends to make the odd mistake, there’s been no signs of it so far this season.
The report also claimed that Roma’s sporting director was quoted to have said: “If Smalling wants to stay, we will open talks with United. The relationship between our clubs are excellent, and we will evaluate this possibility”.
The club will be eager to prove to the defender that they’re interested in keeping him in Rome at the earliest possible situation.
Should Manchester United Cash In On Their Man?
The former Fulham man never hit the heights that were expected of him at United, despite having played in more than 300 fixtures. He was a common laughing-stock around Old Trafford, and the lack of appreciation from the fans towards him would’ve tainted his view of the club as well. If an option to make his loan move at AS Roma permanent does come up, it would be safe to assume that it’s in the best interest of both parties, that Manchester United sell their man.
