Roma 'accept defeat in Chris Smalling pursuit'

Roma have reportedly accepted that they will be unable to sign on-loan central defender Chris Smalling on a permanent deal during this summer's transfer window.

The 30-year-old joined the Italian club on loan from Manchester United ahead of the 2019-20 campaign and has made 28 appearances during the current season.

Roma have said on a number of occasions that they are keen to sign the Englishman on a permanent deal.

However, according to Tuttosport, the Serie A outfit cannot afford to meet United's £18m asking price due to their poor financial position, effectively ending their chances of an agreement.

Smalling still has more than two years left to run on his contract at Old Trafford, but it is unclear whether he is in the plans of Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer moving forward.

The former Fulham youngster has made 323 appearances for United in all competitions.