Everton to return for Manchester United defender

Everton have reportedly decided to revive their long-term interest in signing Manchester United defender Chris Smalling at the end of the campaign.

The central defender has been with the Red Devils for the past eight years and he has been a regular this term with 14 appearances in the Premier League and Champions League.

Despite this, Smalling has yet to pen a new contract beyond the summer of 2019 but United have the option of extending his deal until the end of next season.

According to The Sun, the Toffees are closely monitoring the player's proceedings at Old Trafford and they could seek to sign him on a free transfer, if United opt against triggering the extension clause.

Should this not be the case, the Merseyside outfit are prepared to show their intent by making an approach for the Englishman as early as the 2019 winter transfer window.

Everton boss Marco Silva has the services of Michael Keane and Yerry Mina to depend on for the long-term but Kurt Zouma is expected to return to Chelsea when his loan stint concludes whilst Phil Jagielka could part ways when the season ends.