Juventus, Inter, Tottenham, even Toronto FC – everyone seem to be after experienced defender Chris Smalling. Roma’s 33-year-old centre-back is a wanted man because of a combination of factors: he’s at a good age for a defender, has a lot of experience, doesn’t ask for astronomical wages and will be a free agent at the end of the season. Roma have already offered a new two-year contract to the Englishman, but there is no response just yet.The Giallorossi boss Jose Mourinho wants to keep the former Manchester United and Fulham player and not repeat the scenario of Henrykh Mkhitaryan, who departed to Inter on a free transfer after failing to agree to a new contract at Stadio Olimpico. Mou wants Smalling to be one of the leaders of his team.##NAJAVA_MECA_6904408##These days, Roma’s sporting director Tiago Pinto is looking to send a message of confidence to Smalling – to let him know that he’s viewed as an integral part of the club’s plans for the future. For a player who’s been made unwelcome at Manchester United – such an approach could be the decisive factor.Chris has been ever-present for the Roman club this calendar year. He appeared in 45 matches, with 21 of those coming this season. He missed just half an hour of Serie A football. In Europa League, he skipped only one match. 🚨 Inter Milan have contacted Chris Smalling’s agents over a possible free move.Juventus are also interested in Smalling[Calciomercato] pic.twitter.com/prBPonko3j— Transfersgalaxy (@transfersgalaxy) December 20, 2022 In theory, if he were to leave Rome, the idea would be to go to a club that can guarantee him at least the Champions League. In practice, he hopes to be able to qualify for Europe’s elite competition by finishing in one of top four spots with Mourinho. However, Chris will have to decide his future before June. He’s expected to agree to a new contract or say he wants to leave by mid-January. If he doesn’t commit to staying, other options will come into play.Inter and Juventus are after a bargain option with a proven Serie A track record. But surely, staying where he is should be Smalling’s priority.
