AS Roma to miss out on signing Chris Smalling permanently

As reported by Corierre dello Sport (h/t Daily Mail), AS Roma will be unable to sign Manchester United star Chris Smalling on a permanent deal due to financial difficulties that have risen because of the coronavirus crisis.

Smalling joined Roma on loan last summer and has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Serie A this season. Till date, the England international has made 28 appearances across all competitions, scoring 2 goals and assisting one more.

Roma were intent on signing the 30-year-old on a permanent deal, having been left impressed by his performances this season. Roma boss Paulo Fonseca recently insisted that he would try his best to get the Englishman back at the club next season.

However, their plans to sign Smalling on a permanent basis have been dealt a blow. Clubs in Italy have been hit hard by the suspension of football due to the coronavirus pandemic. Finances have taken a huge hit, which will limit their spending capabilities this summer.

Roma, according to the report, have posted half-yearly losses of €87m. And with them set to miss out on Champions League football for next season, they will have very limited budget in the summer. (h/t Daily Mail)

As a result, they may be unable to land Smalling on a permanent transfer ahead of next season. Furthermore, the Serie A outfit will also have problems paying the Manchester United star’s high wages. (h/t Daily Mail)

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Hence, it looks as if Smalling will not be switching to the Italian outfit on a permanent basis. It remains to be seen what the future holds for the former Fulham ace.