Report: Defender isn’t interested in Newcastle move
A target of Newcastle United has expressed his interest in staying put.
Newcastle United are still looking into options to improve their squad after the rumored takeover finally comes to fruition. While a lot of the focus is on the attack, the Magpies have also been linked to defenders like Kalidou Koulibaly, John Stones, and Chris Smalling. One of those reported targets has now made it clear they don’t want to leave their current location.
Corrieredellosport.it reported that Smalling has decided that he wants to stay with Roma after his loan expires. He is currently playing on loan with the club in Serie A. The center-back featured 28 times so far this season, including five matches in the Europa League. He has two goals to go with one assist.
He’s on loan in Rome from Manchester United. He joined the Red Devils from Fulham during the 2009-10 season. Smalling has made over 300 appearances for the club and has 18 goals to his name. The 30-year-old has also played in EURO 2016 and the 2014 FIFA World Cup with the Three Lions.
While his loan ends at the end of June or whenever the current Serie A season ends, Smalling’s contract runs until 2022 with Manchester United. He inked an extension in December of 2018 under then-manager Jose Mourinho.
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He would’ve provided another veteran presence in the Newcastle United backline and would not have broken the bank, likely under 20 million. But, this isn’t a major blow to Newcastle United’s summer recruitment plan. He’s an aging player that would be joining the deepest position at Newcastle United.