Roma find a breakthrough in the race for Chris Smalling

According to Football Italia (h/t Mirror), Roma have experienced a breakthrough in their negotiations with Manchester United for Chris Smalling.

The United veteran has enjoyed a new lease of life in Italy. An ever-present in the Roma side, he has made 28 appearances en route to becoming a fan favourite.

Both Roma and Smalling were keen to continue their mutually beneficial relationship. However, owing to the coronavirus pandemic, Roma are struggling to meet United’s £22million

valuation of the player.

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

Furthermore, the Serie A outfit will also have problems paying the Manchester United star’s high wages. (h/t Daily Mail)

Thankfully for everyone involved, hope has now been rekindled. According to the report, the two sides are nearing an agreement after a breakthrough in negotiations.

The terms dictate that the former England defender

would return to Roma for another loan spell next season. This will include an obligation to buy at the end of the season for a fee in the region of £15-£16m. (h/t Mirror)

The deal will also work out well for United. We will get rid of a player who is surplus to requirements for a decent fee.

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Smalling is just one of a host of United players who moved to Italy in the last two windows.

The likes of Romelu Lukaku and Ashley Young have moved to Inter Milan. Alexis Sanchez too is at the San Siro on a temporary basis.