Chris Smalling leaves Manchester United to join Roma on a three-year deal after excelling there on loan

Roma have signed defender Chris Smalling from Manchester United on a three-year deal following weeks of negotiations. 

Smalling became one of Roma’s key targets this summer after impressing in his loan to the Serie A side last season, which resulted in 37 appearances across all competitions.   

‘We are pleased to be able to welcome Chris back to the club, as one of the pillars of our squad,’ Roma chief executive Guido Fienga said.

Since returning to Old Trafford the 30-year-old pushed for a permanent move to Roma, but it took a while for both clubs to come to an agreement. 

Fienga added: ‘I would like to thank Manchester United for the consideration they have shown throughout this strenuous and lengthy negotiations.’

Smalling told Roma’s club website: ‘Nothing in life worth having comes easy.

‘My head and my heart has always been in Rome. I am delighted to now be yours. Daje Roma!’