Chris Smalling has struggled to establish himself for Manchester United this season and looks set to depart Old Trafford in the summer.
Manchester United’s Axel Tuanzebe, Chris Smalling and Matteo Darmian arrive ahead of the Europa League Final
Chris Smalling looks set to depart Manchester United in the summer after he fell down the pecking order behind the likes of Eric Bailly, Daley Blind and Marcus Rojo.
The England international was the Players’ Player of the Year for United last season but has been restricted to just 18 Premier League appearances this season under Jose Mourinho and 35 appearances in all competitions.
Reports by the Independent suggest that West Ham and West Brom are both interested in signing the 27-year-old, but Burnley should consider using Mourinho’s interest in centre-back Michael Keane to sign Smalling themselves.
The Red Devils are thought to want to bring 24-year-old Keane back to Old Trafford after his impressive season for Sean Dyche’s side and it is unlikely the Clarets will be able to keep hold of their man considering United’s considerable spending power.
Burnley’s Michael Keane in action with Crystal Palace’s Christian Benteke
However, if Burnley can get hold of Chris Smalling’s signature in a deal involving Michael Keane, then they could land themselves a capable and worthwhile replacement.
Smalling may not be Mourinho’s cup of tea but his form in previous seasons has more than proven he is a capable defender of Premier League quality and would prove to be a good signing for most sides.
The former Fulham man may be an ambitious target for the Clarets, but Burnley should certainly look to bring in someone at least at the level of Keane – why not go all out? Sean Dyche and co may well find that they are able to use the interest in Keane to their advantage.
Burnley manager Sean Dyche gestures towards fans after the match
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
