Chris Smalling (Getty Images)
As per Sports journalist Nicolo Schira (h/t Liverpool Echo), Everton are interested in signing Manchester United defender Chris Smalling, who currently plies his trade with AS Roma in Italy on loan.
Smalling, 30, a product of the Millwall youth academy, joined Manchester United from Fulham in the summer of 2010. After initially struggling to get regular games, he became an integral part of the team and won several titles, including 2 Premier League and 1 FA Cup trophies.
However, his performance declined and he was eventually sent on loan to Roma last summer. And the move has been a blessing in disguise for the Englishman, who has been brilliant for the Italian throughout the campaign. Thus, Everton should make use of this opportunity and sign him at the earliest.
While the attacking unit, led by Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, has shown consistency, the Toffees midfield and the defensive unit have failed throughout the campaign. They have won just 2 of their last 7 league games and have conceded 14 goals during that time.
Yerry Mina, Michael Keane and Mason Holgate are the only centre-backs available at the manager’s disposal. While Holgate has done his best, the former two haven’t been able to hold the lines tightly. They have failed to strike a partnership and that has been one of the reasons for Everton’s lacklustre performance.
In that regard, signing United’s Smalling would be a wise decision by the club. The Englishman has been able to revive his career in Italy and has produced some match-winning performances this season. He has featured in 28 games so far and has also contributed with 2 goals and 1 assist across all competitions.
The English international has made 374 career appearances and would undoubtedly bring a wealth of experience to Ancelotti’s squad, whilst adding the much-needed depth.
Smalling could also form a strong partnership alongside Mina and Keane in the heart of Everton’s defence and would be a valuable addition to the squad of he is able to replicate the same form he has shown this season.
With a lack of options in defence, Everton are in dire need of centre-backs to add depth. Smalling can provide them with that. His inclusion would also bring healthy competition, and his experience would be useful to the side. Thus, the Toffees should make a move for the former Fulham man this summer.
