Roma defender Chris Smalling has yet to give a response to Roma’s offer of a contract extension, with Inter poised to sign him if he rejects the Giallorossi’s offer.
This according to today’s print edition of Rome-based newspaper Il Messaggerio, via FCInter1908, who report that the 33-year-old former Manchester United defender is still considering his future in the Italian capital, with Champions League football a potential factor.
Smalling has been widely reported to be a target for Inter.
The Englishman has been considered to be one of the outstanding defenders in Serie A this season, and given the fact that the situations of players like Francesco Acerebi and Danilo D’Ambrosio are uncertain, in addition to Milan Skriniar leaving, the Nerazzurri have marked him out as a possible defensive reinforcement.
This is particularly the case given that Smalling’s deal runs out at the end of June as things stand.
Roma are not at all keen to lose the former Man United man on a free transfer, and have offered him a new deal, until the end of June 2025.
Moreover, Smalling has the option to automatically extend his contract by one season at the same wages he currently earns.
It has been reported that Roma have set a two-week deadline for Smalling to give his response to their contract offer.
Moreover, it has also been reported that the 33-year-old is likely to accept the Giallorossi’s offer, with the continued presence of coach Jose Mourinho in the capital a key factor in his decision.
However, as of yet, Smalling has not yet given his response according to Il Messaggerio.
The newspaper report that the Englishman is waiting to see whether the Giallorossi will earn a spot in the Champions League next season, considering they are currently in a heated battle for a top four spot with Inter and AC Milan as well as city rivals Lazio.
Should Smalling decline Roma’s offer, Il Messaggerio report that Inter would be well-positioned to bring him in on a free transfer.
