According to Calciomercato, Everton are interested in signing Chris Smalling, despite the fact he endured a tough season with Roma.
What’s the story?
Well, Calciomercato believe Roma are happy to sell the 31-year-old, as he struggled to avoid injuries during the 2020/21 campaign.
Smalling made just 16 appearances in Serie A, missing a number of games due to knee problems.
Calciomercato claim that Everton have ‘always’ been keen on the 31-cap England international.
This could suggest that Farhad Moshiri, Bill Kenwright and Marcel Brands are happy to crack on with a deal, even without a new manager in place.
Calciomercato add that Roma want €15 million (£13 million) for the former Manchester United defender, who is no stranger to Everton.
Marco Silva bid for Chris Smalling in 2019
Those still at Goodison Park from Marco Silva’s stint in charge will know all about Smalling, especially those on the recruitment team.
According to Sky Sports, Silva submitted a bid to take the defender on a season-long loan from Manchester United in 2019.
However, the bid was rejected, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wanted to keep Smalling at Old Trafford.
In our view, this is one Everton should avoid.
If Roma don’t want him due to his injury problems, why should Everton take him?
It would be a big risk, and one not worth taking as Smalling is now 31.
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