Manchester United have reportedly turned down a season-long loan offer for defender Chris Smalling from Everton.
According to Sky Sports, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer still sees Smalling as a key part of his defensive plans despite the recent arrival of Harry Maguire from Leicester.
The 29-year-old signed a new contract in December which keeps at Old Trafford until 2022.
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Smalling has been a good servant to the Reds since his arrival from Fulham nine years ago.
However, his loss would not have been greatly missed as United still have an abundance of centre-back options.
Axel Tuanzebe’s return from his Aston Villa move will provide Smalling more competition this season; the 21-year-old made several impressive performances during the club’s summer tour and will be fighting for a first-team spot this season.
Meanwhile, Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo are still options that can be used by Solskjaer as he will surely rotate with the Reds in action in the Europa League this season following last campaign’s sixth placed finish.
United face Chelsea in the Premier League opener at Old Trafford on Sunday and we hope new signing Maguire is ready to partner Victor Lindelof at the back.
#EFC enquired about taking #MUFC defender Chris Smalling on loan. Told he’s staying put
— Simon Peach (@SimonPeach) August 7, 2019
