Fulham are interested in signing Chris Smalling to shore up their backline, but AS Roma may be reluctant to sell him mid-season.
According to Samp News 24, Chris Smalling is on the radar of Fulham heading into the January transfer window. The 33-year-old English centre-back is an experienced professional, someone Marco Silva seeks this month. But AS Roma may show reluctance to sell him mid-season, as he remains an integral part of the Serie A club.
Fulham are seeking defensive reinforcements in January as Marco Silva wants to build on the solid start to their season. The Portuguese manager wants to add experienced defenders to his squad but continues to face difficulties in acquiring preferred targets.
For instance, Fulham chased Cedric Soares for quite some time. But a move for the Arsenal defender looks difficult as Fulham are unwilling to meet his wage demands. Similarly, the Cottagers are interested in 33-year-old English centre-back Chris Smalling. But signing the defender could prove equally complicated.
Smalling has been an essential player for AS Roma since joining the club from Manchester United. Jose Mourinho considers his experience valuable, but his advancing age could tempt the Serie A outfit to entertain offers if something interesting comes by.
Going by his performances this term, Roma are reluctant to sell him midway through the season and might consider offers in the summer. However, Fulham are interested in doing a deal in January, as there are no guarantees they will retain their interest after the season.
Silva likes what Smalling’s experience could bring to his side in January and is keen to see if they can sign him from Roma. Tottenham have also reportedly shown interest in the 33-year-old English centre-back. But Antonio Conte may have other more pressing targets.
The report suggests Fulham could switch their attention towards Sampdoria’s Omar Colley if they cannot sign Smalling in January. The price of the 30-year-old Gambian could also suit the Cottagers. There could still be optimism about their chances to sign Smalling, but those questions could become clearer as the window progresses.
