CHRIS SMALLING is reportedly pushing for a permanent switch to Roma after crunch talks with boss Paulo Fonseca.
The Manchester United centre-back has undergone a resurgence in the Italian capital and the Giallorossi are desperate to turn his season-long loan into a permanent move in the summer.
Smalling has been dubbed “Smalldini” in Italy after his fine form, starting 28 games for the club in all competitions, finding the net twice and grabbing an assist.
Roma chief Fonseca recently indicated he’s confident of at least sealing another temporary deal with the Italian giants reportedly doing everything they can to keep hold of the United defender.
And now Corriere dello Sport claim that Smalling has made it clear to the Roma bigwigs that he wants to stay with the Giallorossi.
The club are said to be “in talks” to hash out an agreement with United who have valued the ace at £25million.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is understood to still be a fan of the 30-year-old and may well offer the defender a future at Old Trafford.
But he will face a fight from Fonseca who told ESPN: “I will do everything I can to keep him at Roma next year too.
“I know he wants to stay, let’s see what happens.
“He’s an amazing man, so humble, so professional. He is adored by the fans and established himself as one of the leaders in the dressing room.
“It’s not easy for English central defenders to adapt so quickly to Italian football, the record there isn’t good. But he has been amazing.”
However, Roma have been hit hard by the coronavirus crisis and this has cast doubt over Smalling moving on a permanent transfer, unless they can offload some of their star assets.
It is understood Roma DO have first option on Smalling, and initial talks took place over a switch before Italy went into lockdown.
Premier League clubs have also shown interest in signing him, with Arsenal long-term admirers of the defender.
Smalling joined United from Fulham in 2010 for £10m, and has endured a stop start career at Old Trafford.
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