Manchester United defender wants permanent exit from the club

Chris Smalling has reportedly told Manchester United that he wants to leave join Serie A side AS Roma on a permanent basis when the season concludes.

The England international linked up with the Giallorossi on a season-long loan in August after United completed the signing of Harry Maguire from Leicester City.

Smalling has since impressed in the Serie A in his 12 appearances and he has even been handed with the captain's armband on occasions due to his positive displays.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Smalling is keen on sealing a permanent switch to the Stadio Olimpico next summer and he has communicated his desire to United through his representatives.

Roma are likewise keen on pushing through an agreement for the same and they are likely to pay a fee of around £13m for Smalling, should United give the green light.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has recently stated that Smalling will return to the club next summer but a sale remains a strong possibility with the defender unlikely to entertain a back-up role.