Manchester United could keep Chris Smalling this summer.
The latest from Sam Pilger, writing for Forbes, claims United are opening to the idea of keeping Smalling as a member of their squad for the new season.
Smalling has been heavily linked with a permanent switch to AS Roma after impressing at the club on loan last term. Pilger reports “talks have stalled in recent days” so now there’s a possibility the centre-back will stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford.
United want to rid themselves of the perception of being a soft touch in the transfer market.
They fear they are looked upon as a club willing to pay crazy transfer fees while letting players leave on the cheap. That’s a damaging perception to have in the transfer market and something needs to change.
According to the Forbes story, United are holding out for an offer of around £20m for Smalling.
That seems reasonable for a defender who was considered one of the best in Serie A last season.
Moreover, does anyone else think Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo should be pushed out the door before Smalling? Finding them new clubs could be like drawing blood from a stone.
Read more: Opinion: Jadon Sancho, the Glazers and Manchester United’s soap opera