Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to offload English centre-back Chris Smalling this summer, with numerous Premier League clubs, including Everton, interested in securing his signature, according to reports.
The signing of Victor Lindelof from Benfica for £31m is almost complete, with the player just needing to agree personal terms, but the transfer will almost certainly seal Smalling’s exit from Old Trafford.
Everton, West Ham and Crystal Palace are all said to be closely monitoring the situation of Smalling as they are all interested in signing the experienced centre-back.
The Blues are reported to have the best chance of signing Smalling as the Merseyside club have Europa League football next season and Smalling wants European Football.
Smalling was impressive for United in the Europa League final in Stockholm against a young Ajax side as he replaced the suspended Eric Bailly in the heart of the defence. However, with the signing of Lindelof, United have five centre-backs and Mourinho wants to sell at least one.
The 27-year-old made 36 appearances for Manchester United in all competitions this season and helped the Red Devils to win the Community Shield, League Cup and Europa League. He scored two goals in this period.
