According to a recent report by the Italian news outlet Leggo, Tottenham Hotspur ‘have already taken a few steps’ to secure the services of Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling, who is currently playing on loan at AS Roma. However, the same source has also mentioned that Spurs will face competition from Everton in pursuit of the English defender (via Leggo).
Smalling’s Stellar Loan Spell In The Italian Top-Flight
Since joining AS Roma on loan last summer, the 30-year-old has enjoyed a solid campaign at the Stadio Olimpico so far. He has managed to put in several impressive defensive displays during this campaign which has raised his stock in England.
Smalling has featured in 28 matches for the Serie A outfit this term, scoring two goals and providing one assist on all fronts which highlights his growing influence at both ends of the field. More importantly, the 31-time England international has averaged 1.0 tackles, 2.0 interceptions and 4.5 clearances per game in the Italian first division this season (stats via whoscored).
The ex-Fulham centre-half’s contributions have kept AS Roma in the top 4 race as they currently occupy the fifth place with just three points separating them from Atalanta in the league table. He could also have an outside chance of being selected for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions team for this summer’s UEFA Euro 2020 competition.
What Will The English Defensive Ace Bring To The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium?
Even though Smalling had struggled to find consistency in a Man United shirt last season, he has successfully hit back at his critics by performing at a high level this season. He has been a reliable presence at the heart of Fonseca’s defence and has often made some vital interceptions for his side. The English defensive ace reads the danger quickly and also excels at making several last-gasp clearances as a centre-back. However, there are still some question marks over whether the London-born talent can justify his worth in the Premier League where he had previously struggled to live up to his full potential.
Spurs are in dire need of some fresh defensive reinforcements as Jan Vertonghen is currently in the last legs of his playing career. Both Toby Alderweireld and Davinson Sanchez have flattered to deceive with their performances this term while Japhet Tanganga is still too inexperienced to play regularly at the highest level.
Smalling’s addition will not only inject a lot of quality to the Tottenham backline but will also allow Jose Mourinho to be more flexible with his formation and tactics next season. Therefore, the North London giants should try everything in their power to lure the English defender to the English capital this summer.
