Manchester United has an abundance of talent and there are players out on loan. One of them is Chris Smalling, someone who is currently playing for A.S. Roma. With the changes in schedule resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic disruption, the 30-year-old defender's deal was set to expire soon. But it appears both sides were able to work something out, a new deal that would include an option to buy.
According to Football Italia, United and Roma agreed to a new deal which means Smalling will continue to play for The Magic One moving forward. Further, it appears that Roma is pretty happy having the defender onboard, hinting that there is a chance his stay could be made permanent. Under the new deal, they will have that option to buy the center-back. Smalling will remain with the team until the 2020-21 season and can buy him thereafter roughly between $18 to $20 million.
Smalling has gotten a new lease on life in his football career ever since joining La Lupa. In 28 games, the English football player has accounted for nine clean sheets and has even scored twice. The price set for Smalling is way cheaper compared to the original asking price of United. Initially, the Red Devils wanted $27 million for Smalling. Probably factoring in the financial situation and the fact that they may have no room to accommodate Smalling, it was the best recourse to make ends meet. So the only thing left now is when Roma plans to buy Smalling and making him a regular fixture.
On the part of Roma, they still have other targets in mind. One of them is Jan Vertonghen who is expected to leave Tottenham at the end of the month. But the latest reports claim that the 33-year-old has agreed to a contract extension, meaning he will stay with Hotspur until the end of the season. Hence, Roma may have to wait a bit more before they can make their move on the Belgian football player. Tottenham's last game will be against Crystal Palace on July 26.
As for United, it would be a big help to them financially. The Red Devils have slowed down a bit, aware that they need to be careful about how to spend their available funds. Jadon Sancho remains a target although there are reports that they have diverted their focus on cheaper alternatives. That includes Leon Bailey, who costs a whole lot less than Sancho. However, United will have to contend with teams such as Manchester City and Chelsea who are also interested in taking in the 22-year-old footballer.
