Everton are reportedly weighing up a summer move for Chris Smalling, who faces an uncertain future at Manchester United.
According to a report by Daily Mirror, Everton are keeping tabs on Chris Smalling’s situation at Manchester United, who could offload him in the summer transfer window. The Toffees could make a move for the England international, if his time at Old Trafford comes to an end.
Smalling’s time at Manchester United has been a mixed bag, ever since he moved from Fulham in the summer of 2011. Signed as a potential long-term solution at the back for the Red Devils, the player has never really managed to enjoy an extended spell of regular football, bar an 18-month period under Louis van Gaal.
Under Jose Mourinho, Smalling has been in and out of the side, only becoming a regular this season due to injuries suffered by Eric Bailly and Phil Jones. But, he has often cut a susceptible figure, especially in recent weeks when Manchester United haven’t been as solid defensively as they were in the first half of the season.
As a result, Mourinho is unhappy with his options at the back and is reportedly seeking a central defensive addition for the third successive summer transfer window. Consequently, some players are set to be put on the chopping block, with Smalling among those who could be axed by the Manchester United boss. His next destination could very well be Everton.
The Toffees spent heavily last summer in a bid to establish themselves as genuine top four contenders. But, the campaign that ensued has seen Everton struggle to match the heights of last season, let alone make a case for a top four spot.
A lot of Everton’s failures have been down to problems at the back, with summer signing Michael Keane failing to combine well with Ashley Williams to shore up the backline. Plotting a move for Smalling could thus, be a step in the right direction for the Merseyside Blues, who are keeping a close eye on his situation at Manchester United.
The 28-year-old has just 15 months left on his current deal at Old Trafford, which could also prompt Manchester United to cut their losses and recoup a good sum from his sale. Everton, on the other hand, could have a fine short-term central defensive solution in Smalling, who could also guide Keane at Goodison Park.
It now remains to be seen if Smalling’s time at Manchester United indeed comes to an end this summer, and if Everton are the club to sign him. The signs do point towards the player fighting for his future at Old Trafford, which looks rather bleak at the moment.
