Roma want to extend the contract of defender Chris Smalling soon in order to avoid the possibility of losing him on a free transfer to Inter next summer.

This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, who report that the Giallorossi have offered the Englishman a deal until the end of June 2025 worth €3.5 million net per season plus add-ons, and expect a response within 45-60 days.

Roma have already lost one player they had wanted to keep to Inter on a free transfer in the form of Henrikh Mkhitaryan last summer.

Now, the Giallorossi are taking steps to avoid a similar situation with Smalling.

The 33-year-old’s representatives have already been in talks with Inter, who would consider him a possible reinforcement to their backline depending on who leaves during next summer’s transfer window.

However, Roma want to tie Smalling down in the Italian capital with a new deal to make sure he does not join the Nerazzurri for free.

The Giallorossi have made their offer, and are expecting a response within the next couple of months according to the Gazzetta.