According to the standard English Sports outlet, Daily Star, English center-back Chris Smalling is plotting a move to stay back at Roma and snub his parent club Manchester United at the end of the loan spell. With only six months spent in Italy, the player has become an instant hit and a firm fan favorite. This is considered one of the major reasons why the center-back wants to stay in Rome.
Since his temporary transfer from Old Trafford to Stadio Olimpico, the player has become a regular starter for the club under Roma’s manager Paulo Fonseca. Chris Smalling has started 12 times in Serie A and two goals and an assist to his name.
According to Italian outlet, Gazzetta Dello Sport, Chris Smalling has given the nod to his transfer from England to Italy. It is being heard that the player has given a mandate to representatives to find an agreement between the clubs and finalize the transfer.
The 30-year-old English center-back has still 2 years on his contract at the end of the season, but it seems that the player is very happy in Italy and might not want to return back to Manchester where his playing time is very limited.
Earlier in December, Roma team manager Morgan De Sanctis told that the club is trying very hard to secure the signature of Chris Smalling on a permanent basis.
“It is well known we are trying to find a solution that makes everyone happy,”
“We are in no rush, we want to get this right, and can also rely on the player, who said he is happy at Roma.”
Chris Smalling has become popular to an extent that the player lost narrowly to Kostas Manolas in an opinion poll for the team of the decade. It is worthy to note that the Manchester United player has been here only for a few months whereas Kostas Manolas has played for five years for the Rome based outfit.
Currently, Roma sits in the fourth spot in the Italian top tier. They are just one point behind their rivals Lazio and they face an intriguing clash with Juventus after the winter break on January 12. Will Smalling return to Old Trafford or will remain in Italy? Voice your opinions below.
