Chris Smalling 'tells Manchester United he wants permanent exit'

Chris Smalling has reportedly told Manchester United that he wants to join Roma on a permanent basis next summer.

The Englishman joined the Serie A side on loan in August following United's acquisition of Harry Maguire from Leicester City.

Smalling has since impressed for the Rome side, making 12 appearances in the league and even captaining the side on occasion.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Smalling is keen on making his loan move permanent and has instructed his representatives to make the deal happen.

Roma are also keen to strike a long-term move for Smalling, with any deal for the defender likely to cost around £13m.

Despite Smalling's reported stance, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer recently noted that he expected Smalling to return to United over the summer.