AS Roma's Chris Smalling reacts
Everton are reportedly ‘interested’ in signing AS Roma central defender Chris Smalling on a free transfer this summer.
The Lowdown: Contract expiring
Smalling’s contract at Roma expires this at the end of the season, meaning that he can leave as a free agent following the conclusion of 2022/2023.
However, his current deal includes a one-year extension option, and the Englishman has admitted that he hopes to stay beyond this campaign.
The Latest: Everton interest
Co-writing in a piece for 90min, transfer expert Graeme Bailey says that Everton are one of a number of clubs that are ‘interested’ in signing Smalling on a free transfer, should he not sign a new deal at Roma.
Fulham, Leicester City and West Ham United are also thought to be interested in the 6 foot 4 defender’s signature, should he become available.
The Verdict: Experience…
Smalling would offer plenty of experience at Goodison Park above everything should he make the move.
Aside from playing regularly in a major league in the Serie A and in Europe, the 33-year-old has also played for Manchester United and Fulham in the Premier League, and even won two top-flight titles during his time at Old Trafford.
Hailed as ‘outstanding‘ by journalist Josh Bunting after helping Roma win the UEFA Europa Conference League last season, the six-foot-four colossus has a winning mentality that would really help in the Toffees dressing room, and given his Premier League experience, this could be a shrewd move on a free.
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