Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is ready to bring about some more changes at Old Trafford. The Red Devils boss has signed multiple marquee players in various positions to strengthen his team. Apart from the position of the goalkeeper where he has had a gem in David De Gea, Mourinho has strengthened everywhere. He has brought in the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Nemanja Matic and Romelu Lukaku this season on top of additions like Paul Pogba and Zlatan Ibrahimovic last time around. On paper, United has an excellent attack but their defence has been shaky on several occasions and has been saved the blushes by the brilliance of David De Gea.
It is believed that Jose Mourinho wants to now reorganize his backline and is ready to part ways with Chris Smalling and Phil Jones. Smalling is known for his fluctuating levels of performance where he is absolutely magnificent one night and average, the very next game. The Englishman’s career has also been hampered by multiple injuries and he is yet to live up to his potential. With Mourinho ready to cut him loose, it is being reported that Arsenal might be interested in securing his services.
We could only witness the best out Chris Smalling when Alex Ferguson was at the helm at Manchester United. The retired Scotsman played Smalling in the centre-back role ahead of a lot of talented options and won three league titles with him in the backline.
Arsenal’s defence has been one of their worst enemies this season with Wenger struggling to adapt to the back three formations. The injuries to Laurent Koscielny and Nacho Monreal forced out the structure the side had in the past.
Shkodran Mustafi is the best option in the backline but has lacked the cutting edge to really lead the side defensively. Calum Chambers and Rob Holding have been provided with an opportunity to prove themselves over the season but has looked vulnerable at times. The young duo is a huge part of the club’s future, but without consistency will have a tough time breaking into the starting XI.
Per Mertesacker’s retirement after this season will leave a gap in the club ranks in terms of leadership and experience and maybe Smalling with his knowledge of the league will be able to stabilize the backline.
Other Premier League clubs like Everton, Stoke City and West Ham are also interested in securing the signature of the Englishman.
