Pranav Nair
Manchester United and Roma unable to agree on Chris Smalling deal
According to Football Italia (h/t Mirror), Manchester United and Roma are in talks about extending the loan of Chris Smalling beyond this season.
The United veteran has enjoyed a new lease of life in Italy. He has gone on to rebuild his reputation as a formidable defender in the Italian capital.
Given his performances, it is no surprise that Roma want to keep him. According to the report, the Italians are looking to extend the players’ loan into next season with a £13m purchase clause included.
United initially valued the defender at a significant £25m. They are now ready to lower their price slightly. Roma, for their part, have offered United a £2.5m loan fee for next season.
It remains to be seen if the difference in valuation between the two clubs will prove to be an issue. The player, for his part, is happy in the Italian capital.
The Italians have posted half-yearly losses of €87million. And with Champions League football for next season looking increasingly unlikely, they will have a very limited budget in the summer. (h/t Daily Mail)
Furthermore, Roma will also have problems paying the United veteran’s high wages. (h/t Daily Mail)
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Smalling has made 32 appearances this season as Roma attempt to get back to the Champions League. They are currently in 5th spot, 14 points off the top four. The defender has so far chipped in with two goals and one assist. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to get Smalling’s significant wages off the books. It appears that the player has no future at United. Whether it now exists at Roma or not remains to be seen.
