Why A Move For Chris Smalling Would Benefit Everton This Summer
As per a report from ESPN, Everton are interested in a sensational summer move for Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling. Although the player has been loyal to the Red Devils, the report claims that he could go down the pecking order if new players join Manchester United in the summer.
A previous report from ESPN had claimed that United are willing to listen to offers for Smalling since they are eyeing a massive rebuild at the end of the season.
Everton could greatly benefit from the deal if it goes through. Despite splashing out an eye-watering sum of money last summer, the Toffees started the season on a weak note and a slew of disappointing performances eventually led to the sacking of Ronald Koeman.
Now, with Sam Allardyce in charge, the club have turned things around for themselves and are currently placed in the top-10 of the league standings. However, in order to realise bigger ambitions next season, a move for Smalling could work.
With Phil Jagielka and Ashley Williams on the wrong side of 30, Everton are in dire need of new central defenders. One might not place Smalling on the list of best defenders in the Premier League but he does the basics right.
His performances are not particularly attractive but he can keep things going and that can make a difference in most situations.
He has done decently enough for United this season and his experience and skills are likely to strengthen Everton at the back. Allardyce also has Michael Keane at hand and he has also used Cuco Martina in the centre-back position a few times. However, his current resources will not be enough to do well next season and so a move for Smalling can actually provide greater depth for Allardyce.
Thus, given a choice, Everton must definitely go for Smalling. He is the kind of no-nonsense player the club have lacked in recent times. There is no doubt that his vast experience and technical knowledge will come in handy for the Toffees.
Also, at 28 years of age, Smalling still has a lot to offer and if United sign new recruits this summer, it would make sense for the Englishman to leave Old Trafford. It remains to be seen if Everton place a bid for the centre-back but if this deal goes through, it would act as a win-win for all parties involved.