Report: Everton contact Manchester United over Chris Smalling

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Everton have reportedly told Manchester United that they would be interested in Chris Smalling if a deal for Marcos Rojo is off the table.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Everton have been in contact with Manchester United and told them that the Toffees would be interested in signing either Chris Smalling or Victor Lindelof if the Red Devils are not prepared to let Marcos Rojo leave Old Trafford this summer.

Marco Silva is keen to bring Rojo to Goodison Park this summer as he looks to bolster his defensive options ahead of his first season at the helm on Merseyside. However, TEAMtalk reports that the Argentina international is attracting plenty of attention and Everton are preparing for possibly missing out on the defender.

According to TEAMtalk, Everton are bracing themselves to potentially switch their attention to Smalling and Lindelof if their pursuit of Rojo fails, and the Toffees have already made contact with United to let them know that they would be interested in either of the centre-back pair if their number one target is unavailable.

TEAMtalk adds that Everton would be looking at a permanent deal for Smalling, while any move for Lindelof would likely involve a loan at this stage.

Smalling has been a very good servant for Manchester United. He goes into the coming campaign 11 appearances short of making 300 for the club in all competitions, so his reliability would certainly make him a welcome addition.

Everton undoubtedly need to bolster their ranks at the back after such a disappointing campaign last year. And it appears that Silva is determined to improve his options with at least one signing from Jose Mourinho’s squad.