Everton were leading the race to sign the Manchester United centre-back, according to the bookies, but West Ham United are now the front-runners.
Manchester United’s Chris Smalling in action
Popular bookmakers SkyBET have installed the Hammers as the new favourites in the race to sign Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling, with the east Londoners leap-frogging the Toffees in the listing.
The 27-year-old is seemingly on his way out of Old Trafford, after Victor Lindelof’s big money arrival yesterday, and his potential availability will surely lead to a clamour for his signature.
Slaven Bilic will be desperate to improve upon his defensive options this summer, and Smalling would fit the bill perfectly, what with his extensive experience of playing at the very highest level, and of course, the undoubted quality that he possesses.
And SkyBET believe that Smalling could be plying his trade at the London Stadium next season, making West Ham 9/4 favourites to sign the 6ft 4in defender, ahead of Everton at 13/2.
Manchester United’s Chris Smalling in action
The Telegraph reported yesterday that Jose Mourinho is willing to listen to offers in the region of £15 million for Smalling, and if Bilic manages to bring him to the club for that kind of fee, it could turn out to be a real coup for the Hammers.
They will not have things all their own way, however, with Everton, West Brom and Newcastle all reportedly interested in signing the England international.
England’s Chris Smalling
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