According to Mirror, Chris Smalling is on the verge of joining AS Roma. The Italian club have made a big breakthrough in the pursuit of the Manchester United defender by agreeing to a deal worth £18 million, although the Red Devils were initially demanding £20 million. Smalling is set to sign a three-year contract with the Giallorossi, becoming their second big signing from the Premier League, after Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Smalling Eyeing A Spot In The England Side
Smalling’s permanent move to AS Roma is a clear indicator that the defender has now set his sights on the European Championship next summer.
The centre-back has already enjoyed a fruitful debut campaign at the Stadio Olimpico last season, becoming one of the main components in Paulo Fonseca’s defensive tactics. He could thus emerge as the face of the Roma backline in this new season and should have no problems finding regular game-time under the Portuguese tactician.
It should significantly help Smalling to solidify his place in the England national team for next year’s European Championship. Not to mention, replicating his performances in Serie A this coming season could also make him a guaranteed starter for the Three Lions in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
So Gareth Southgate will surely keep a close eye on the performances of the 30-year-old Englishman next season.
An Improved Role For Axel Tuanzebe?
Axel Tuanzebe was one of the biggest disappointments for Manchester United last season.
Coming on the back of a solid season with Aston Villa, the young defender was braced to make an impact in the Premier League. But, his progress was marred by a hamstring injury that kept him out for almost the entirety of the campaign. He ultimately mustered only five league games under his belt.
That said, the 22-year-old will surely have bigger hopes for the 2020/21 campaign, and the apparent departure of Smalling could potentially earn him a more prominent role in the first-team. Although having been on the fringes of the senior side, Tuanzebe’s abilities will be put to the test soon enough.
Should Manchester United Sign A Replacement?
The departure of Smalling will, no doubt, reduce Manchester United’s strength in depth in the defensive department. While the Red Devils do have Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof as first-choice centre-backs, other options like Eric Bailly, Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe have all struggled with injuries throughout their respective careers at Old Trafford.
Therefore, it might be imperative for Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer to find a replacement for Smalling this summer. The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic has crippled the club’s financial powers, to an extent, but splashing another £40-£50 million on the market could guarantee them, a top-class defensive outlet.
