Arsenal have joined Tottenham in the race for Manchester United defender Chris Smalling, according to the reports coming out of Italy.
Smalling is enjoying an impressive season on loan at AS Roma and his performances at the Stadio Olympico have reportedly caught the attention of Premier League clubs including Spurs and Everton (Corriere Dello via The Express).
Roma are also reportedly trying to complete a permanent deal for the England defender (Calciomercato).
Smalling has already admitted that he feels settled in the Italian capital and opened the door to a permanent move to the club at the end of the season (BBC Sport).
It looks like Spurs might face further competition to contend with Gazzetta Dello Sport (as relayed by Sport Witness) reported yesterday in their print edition that Arsenal have joined the race for the experienced defender in the summer with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta looking to bolster his backline.
It is claimed that the Gunners have told Manchester United that they are ready to meet their valuation of Smalling, which is thought to be around £25 million.
Spurs Web Opinion
There is no doubt that our defence needs investment in the summer but with the emergence of Tanganga, and with Dier keen to move back to centre back, we aren’t as desperately short in central defence as some people think. I think we do need one addition but I would rather keep Vertonghen for one more season than sign Smalling.
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