Everton have been labelled as favourites to sign Manchester United defender Chris Smalling. As per reports, the Toffees are keen to sign Man United’s defensive duo of Chris Smalling and Phil Jones, both of whom are expected to leave the Old Trafford this summer.
However, Sam Allardyce’s men could face stiff competition from West Ham and Newcastle United for the services of Chris Smalling. Newcastle, in particular, have been the latest entrants in the race to sign the English International defender.
For a side struggling to cope with the rigours of the Premier League, Newcastle United have fared pretty well, defensively, this season, conceding just 36 goals, joint least by any team in the second half of the table. That being said, however, the Magpies could run the risk of losing club captain and star defender Jamaal Lascelles this summer.
The 24-year-old has been an ever-present figure in the Newcastle backline this season and has built a formidable defensive partnership with Florian Lejeune in the last few matches. However, Chelsea and Everton have joined the race to sign the Newcastle United defender, meaning the Magpies could be in dire need of a centre-back this summer and that’s where Chris Smalling comes into the fray.
The Manchester United defender has somewhat struggled to cement a place into the starting lineup in the last few years, largely thanks to Eric Bailly impressive performances in central defence. And his recent displays has brought in more criticism about Chris Smalling, who looks destined to depart the club this summer.
Newcastle United could be a perfect destination for the England International. Although the 28-year-old might not be a popular figure at Old Trafford, he certainly has the talent to make a difference in the Newcastle United backline.
The Magpies are currently sitting 13th in the table and a move to St. James’ park looks very likely, should they manage to stay up in the league come May. Smalling’s vast experience in top-flight coupled with the fact that he’s very good when it comes to making challenges in his own half makes him tailor-made for the tactical philosophy of head coach Rafael Benitez.
While his poor positioning could still create a lot of troubles, especially for the Benitez led Newcastle United backline, Chris Smalling will definitely be an interesting acquisition for the Magpies this summer.
