It seems like Chris Smalling’s time at Manchester United has come to a close and many could foresee it coming after Mourinho had openly questioned the desire and willingness of the centre back to fight back from injury into the team sheet of his club.
With the signing of Lindelof, it is pretty evident that Bailly would be pairing up beside the Swede in the centre of the defence backline.
Contract bound with the Red Devils till 2019, Smalling is set to be valued at £15m.
Let’s take a look at the 3 possible destinations for Chris Smalling
#1 West Ham United
Bilic is looking to plug the defensive holes at the back which saw the Hammers concede an astounding 64 goals this past season and the Croatian is already upbeat and running to find the ideal solution.
After having signed Manchester City veteran full-back, Zabaleta, it should come as no surprise if he goes all out for the United outcast Chris Smalling.
Smalling is known for his superior aerial as well as physical presence in the box and could pair up with Jose Fonte at the back to form a formidable backline for the Hammers.
The 27-year-old has the traits of a leader and his defensive skills and speed do make him a lethal figure to have at the back. Certainly, a lucrative prospect to have at London Stadium, it is now up to Bilic to make it happen.
#2 West Bromwich Albion
The Baggies has been a place for Manchester United outcasts lately and the English International might be swayed into joining them as had been done previously by his former teammates Darren Fletcher and Johny Evans.
Tony Pulis is well known for his admiration of defenders who are strong and physical in the box and are good in the air and seeing the fact that Smalling possesses all these qualities, would no doubt make him want the defender in his team before next season.
But to acquire the United centre-half, West Brom would have to break the bank no doubt as it would register as their highest paid transfer fee for any player till date.
But with Pulis aiming for a better finish than last season, he needs to invest and this seems like a sensible one.
#3 Everton
Everton might also be a prospective or a rather better destination for the United centre-half seeing the fact they are getting better and better each season and Ronald Koeman having openly expressed his interest in fighting for a European place next season goes to show the club’s ambition and vision.
Not only would Smalling infuse some energy and exuberance in the ageing defence backline of the Toffees but also with his ability to build up play from the back and make the occasional charge into the opponent’s half would make him an ideal Koeman-player.
Being tactically aware and also having quite a few prime footballing years left in his pocket, Smalling could make himself a permanent figure for the Toffees. Safe to say the Goodison Park would be delighted to have the 27-year-old on their side plus with the Dutchman’s gala of funds this summer he could outbid all other potential suitors to prise away the individual.
It’s all up to Smalling now, who has recently changed his agent, and we should hope that he evaluates all his options minutely and make the best of his decision. Good Luck, lad!
