Chris Smalling’s agent released a cryptic statement after reports the England international defender had asked to leave. ‘We continue to be in talks with AS Roma.’
Tuttomercatoweb had claimed this afternoon that Smalling had not just turned down a new contract, with his deal set to expire in June, but also put in a transfer request to leave during the January transfer window.
There have been repeated reports from multiple sources that Smalling is a target for Inter as a free agent in the summer.
Agent James Featherstone sent a message to Sky Sport Italia transfer expert Fabrizio Romano to counter the report, although it wasn’t exactly reassuring for the future either.
“The future of Chris Smalling is not something that is being played out in the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. Similar to there, the audience do not engage with the performers.
“We continue to be in talks with AS Roma.
“Following Chris’ man of the match performance in the final of the first European title win in 61 years for AS Roma, Chris is focused on delivering more success for AS Roma this season.”
Initial feedback from sources at Roma also denied that Smalling had requested an immediate exit and it would’ve been a difficult ask with so few days left in the January transfer window.
It would only perhaps have made sense if Inter managed to sell Milan Skriniar to Paris Saint-Germain early and needed a replacement.
Roma have already been at the centre of drama during this window, trying to find Nicolò Zaniolo and Rick Karsdorp a new club.