Chris Smalling ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 01: Theo Hernandez of AC Milan is challenged by rom6during the Serie A TIM match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on September 01, 2023 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
ROME, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 01: Theo Hernandez of AC Milan is challenged by rom6during the Serie A TIM match between AS Roma and AC Milan at Stadio Olimpico on September 01, 2023 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Roma defender Chris Smalling has signed the two-year contract with Al-Fahya FC in the Saudi Pro League, while Joao Costa is sold to Al-Ettifaq for €9m.

The Giallorossi are transforming their defence even after the transfer deadline in Serie A and managing to shake off some of their unwanted players.

The Saudi Pro League market closes this evening, so time is short to get these deals over the line.

Transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano confirms that Smalling has now signed the two-year contract with Al-Fahya FC after undergoing his medical tests in Rome.

Roma release Smalling and Joao Costa

Meanwhile, Sky Sport Italia reveal that 19-year-old right-sided winger Joao Costa has completed his transfer to Al-Ettifaq, bringing a tidy €9m into the club coffers.

He was brought to the Giallorossi youth academy in 2021 from Corinthians and worked his way up to the senior squad.

It all comes on the same day that Mario Hermoso signed a three-year contract to become a new Roma defender.

The 29-year-old Spain international was available as a free agent following the end of his experience with Atletico Madrid.

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