Former Manchester United star 'open' to Saudi transfer after making two changes

Chris Smalling is set to make some concessions as he bids to find a new team this summer.

The former Manchester United defender has entered the final year of his contract at Roma after missing the bulk of last term with tendonitis. The 34-year-old was unable to establish himself consistently in the Serie A side's starting XI upon his return.

Smalling has yet to draw much interest however. The ex-Fulham star has been forced to reevaluate his expectations over what could be the final move of his career.

Agent James Featherstone is reported to have met with his client, as Roma look to remove Smalling's salary from their books. Featherstone it is said, once again tabled the notion of moving to the Saudi Pro League.

Smalling has been reluctant to consider a move to the Middle East thus far. The centre-half instead has preferred to centre his future in Europe, where he believes he could still fulfill an important role.

Salary is unlikely to cause any issue for Saudi Arabian suitors but has quelled interest in Europe it appears. Smalling is now said to be open to offers from anywhere, but is also willing to reduce his wage demands to remain in the continent.

The veteran may not be the only English star to depart the Stadio Olimpico this summer. Tammy Abraham is another Roma could look to cash in on.

The Italian side are keen to remove Abraham's wages from their books, with the former Chelsea ace earning between £3.5million and £4m net per season. A possible move to AC Milan has been touted, but there is also Premier League interest.

Bournemouth could pursue a move should Dominic Solanke complete his transfer to Tottenham. The Cherries President of Football Operations, Tiago Pinto, brought Abraham to Roma in 2021 and is said to have a strong relationship with the striker.

Abraham returned from a lengthy spell out due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury in April and has two years remaining on his contract in the Italian capital. Roma boss Daniele De Rossi has claimed Abraham is an 'important' player for his squad but has recently added Artem Dovbyk from Girona.

Bournemouth could move to take advantage of that situation with Tottenham in advanced talks over a £60million swoop for Solanke. The ex-Chelsea and Liverpool striker already has a broad agreement in place on personal terms with the Lilywhites.