Manchester United are reportedly set to hand Chris Smalling a new contract, with Jose Mourinho impressed with his recent performances.
According to an exclusive report by Daily Star, Manchester United are eager to tie Chris Smalling down to a new contract, with his current deal set to run out in less than 12 months. The English international had been linked with a move away from Old Trafford in the wake of reports linking the Red Devils with a number of centre-backs in the summer.
Smalling has been a paradoxical figure during his time at Manchester United. His inconsistencies render him a liability at times. But, the 28-year-old has also been a manager’s delight by staying fit more than most players at the club.
Under Jose Mourinho, the Englishman has been in and out of the side, which led to reports this past summer that Smalling would be expendable as Manchester United sought a top class centre-back.
But, Manchester United failed to land any of their top transfer targets for the heart of defence, as a result of which the likes of Smalling, Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo stayed put. A poor start to the season only enhanced the belief that the English international should have been shown the exit door at Old Trafford.
Smalling though, has since been in vindicating form, which has seen Manchester United concede just two goals in their last four games across all competitions, with the player starting each of the games. And now, the Red Devils are looking to reward the 28-year-old by handing him a new contract.
The report suggests that Jose Mourinho has been impressed by the defender’s performances in recent weeks, and wants to secure his future. With less than 12 months remaining on his current deal, the Red Devils are set to step up their efforts to tie Smalling down to a new contract.
Speculation has been rife in recent weeks once again over a possible departure, with Smalling reportedly putting up his house for sale. But, the report suggests that the player is happy at Manchester United, who will not have to indulge in a long drawn out saga to reach an agreement over a renewal.
The move will not just help Manchester United secure Smalling’s future, but also keep his transfer value in check, in case they put him up for sale in the transfer market. For now though, the player seems to be staying at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future, with a renewal on the cards.
