Everton should look to hijack West Brom’s bid to sign Manchester United centerback Chris Smalling.
Around 18 months back, Chris Smalling was the first choice centerback for England. Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal even went to the extent of touting him to become the next captain for Manchester United in an interview with ESPN.
England’s Chris Smalling scores their first goal
How time doth change. Fast forward 18 months and Chris Smalling is behind Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly and possibly compatriot Phil Jones in the pecking order at Old Trafford. According to reports on the Sun, West Brom are set to test the waters with a £10million bid for the former Fulham man.
If indeed his valuation in the market is around £10 million, it would be a bargain for whoever eventually lands the England international. Mind you, despite being capped 31 times at international level, this is the same transfer window where Jack Cork is reported (by Sky Sports) to have moved for the same amount.
Which brings us to the question, should Everton hijack West Brom’s bid? He sure does seem to tick all the boxes for the Toffees. On his day, he is a very reliable center half, very good in the air and deceptively fast for his size.
He would also bring considerable European experience to the squad, and given Everton might look at the Europa League as a possible bridge to the Champions League next year, his addition could be invaluable.
With Phil Jagielka and Ashley Williams not getting any younger (and Ramiro Funes Mori injured), Will Keane and Chris Smalling have the making of a long term centerback partnership at the Goodison. If indeed it comes to a straight race between West Brom and Everton, the 27-year-old would undoubtedly look at the Toffees as a more attractive destination.
Manchester United’s Chris Smalling in action with Stoke City’s Xherdan Shaqiri
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