Everton enquire about former PL winning defender Chris Smalling – Di Marzio
Everton have reportedly shown an interest in the availability of AS Roma centre-back Chris Smalling by making an enquiry to sign him this summer.
According to Sky Sports Italy journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the former England international’s future lies away from the Stadio Olimpico and Goodison Park good be a sweet landing spot for him now that he’s on Everton’s transfer shortlist.
New Roma manager Jose Mourinho, who previously worked with him at Manchester United, could be willing to part ways with him and looking for other defensive options.
The Italian club, however, will only sell if the right offer was tabled. While there’s been no mention of a price tag, Transfermarkt has valued the defender at £10.8 million.
Not a fan
There are plenty of centre-backs that would be willing to join Everton so it’s baffling that we’re showing interest in Smalling of all defenders.
Sure, he is a two-time Premier League winner, and was called “fantastic” by Sir Alex Ferguson [Goal], but it’s been a long time since he was considered a quality English top-flight defender.
Since the Scot walked out of the door, Smalling has failed to replicate the same sort of performances having been given a chance under multiple managers before eventually being sold overseas.
Smalling always seems to be a defender who has a defensive error waiting to happen and aerially he’s often second best to most duels.
He’s not even the best tackler as when compared to other centre-backs in the top-five European leagues he finds himself in the bottom 15 per cent for tackles won per 90 minutes (0.97). [Statsbomb]
The only argument one could make for him is that he would add to our homegrown contingent.
However, we’re not short on homegrown names to register and have a few academy graduates that could be part of the first team very soon.
Hopefully, someone at the club can see the light and not pursue this signing.
In other Everton news, Toffees in race to sign £17m attacker who wants to play for Jurgen Klopp – report
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