According to a recent report by Corriere dello Sport, on-loan AS Roma defender Chris Smalling could decline a permanent stay in Italy in favour of a switch back to the Premier League this summer. The same source has also mentioned that both Everton and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in acquiring the services of the €20m-rated Manchester United centre-back and are prepared to offer a higher salary to land him during the summer transfer window.
With AS Roma looking likely to miss out on UEFA Champions League football next season, the English defender is considering his options in England as the Italian outfit won’t have the funds to make his loan deal permanent at the end of this campaign (via Corriere dello Sport).
Smalling’s Brilliant Loan Spell In Italy
Smalling has enjoyed a productive loan spell at the Stadio Olimpico so far after finding a level of consistency with his performances this season. He has been responsible for putting in some dogged defensive displays for Paulo Fonseca’s team.
The 30-year-old has played in 24 matches for the Italian outfit this term, scoring two goals and providing one assist in all competitions. Smalling has proven time and time again that he can make a difference at both ends of the pitch. On the defensive end, he has averaged 1.1 tackles, 2.2 interceptions and 4.3 clearances per 90 minutes in the Serie A this season (stats via whoscored). Smalling’s stats have been exemplary during his loan spell at Roma which has enhanced his reputation in European football.
What Will The English Centre-Half Add To Ancelotti’s Side?
Despite his struggles at Man United last season, Smalling has hit back at his critics by having the best campaign of his playing career so far. He has been a rock at the back for AS Roma and has often made some vital interceptions for his team. The English defensive ace also excels at making some crucial last-gasp clearances as the centre-back can read the danger quicker than most others around him. However, the jury is still out on whether Smalling can find the same level of consistency in the Premier League where he had previously failed to live up to his potential.
Recruiting a centre-back of Smalling’s experience and skillset will undeniably be a massive coup for the Toffees if they can win the battle for his signature this summer. He will be guaranteed regular first-team minutes at Goodison Park while Everton can also resolve some of their defensive problems by signing the English talent.
Carlo Ancelotti is a master tactician who has previously managed some top defenders in European football. Hence, the Italian boss could be the perfect man to get the best out of the 30-year-old before he decides to hang up his playing boots in the coming years.
