Roma offered an extension to Chris Smalling, who will be out of contract in June if he doesn’t pick up his option to prolong it. However, the defender is biding time, and the Giallorossi are concerned with the offers he might receive.
Per Corriere dello Sport, Inter, which have been linked to him, have denied their interest. The capital side tendered a two-year deal for a total of €5M. He’d be taking a pay cut since he currently earns €3.5M plus add-ons annually. That would be the salary if he activated the clause to stay for another season.
Roma fear Smalling could be tempted to return to the Premier League in the summer. However, their offer is non-negotiable. They have to massage their wages bill to make room for additions. According to Corriere della Sera (via ReteSport), the veteran would like to play in the Champions League next year. The Giallorossi can’t guarantee it at the moment.
The Englishman has avoided injuries and has been essential this season. He has been their most utilized player so far. He featured in all 22 matches and logged 1906 minutes, even more than starting goalie Rui Patricio.
Our Take on Roma and Smalling
The haste by the club is understandable, and they want certainties for the future, but there’s no real reason for the center-back should decide his future right now. Besides their final position, there’s plenty of uncertainty related to José Mourinho as well. Inter would be a natural landing spot if they lost either Milan Skriniar or Stefan De Vrij, or both.
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