Everton have once again been touted as a potential destination for Chris Smalling should he not end up staying at Roma this summer.
The defender is currently on loan at the Serie A side from Manchester United and has proven to be a big hit with them.
They are keen to turn his move into a permanent one but Manchester United’s demands, and interest from elsewhere may scupper that.
Gazzetta Dello Sport explain that if Roma were to secure Champions League football next season, then ‘it would be easier’ for Roma to get a deal done.
However, if they weren’t then ‘it will become complicated’ as ‘half the Premier League’, namely Arsenal, Everton and Tottenham, are also interested in Smalling’s signature.
It’s not the first time all three have been linked, with several reports in recent months suggesting Smalling had them as options if he decided to return to England.
Everton are arguably the most intriguing as, while they need a centre back, his age would presumably rule out a move.
The Blues have made it clear they’re looking at the younger end of the market and Smalling would have little to no resale value at this point in his career.
Unless they are looking for an experienced centre back to fill the current vacant fourth spot in their squad, it seems unlikely they would have him high on their list of targets.
