Arsenal lead race to sign Chris Smalling

Arsenal have apparently emerged as the ‘frontrunners’ to sign Chris Smalling from Manchester United next summer, according to The Sun.

The Gunners are keeping close tabs on the England international, who has been excellent during his loan spell at AS Roma this season.

The report says that the north London outfit are “big admirers” of the Englishman and they have added him to their transfer target list for next year.

The 30-year-old defender has contributed two goals and one assist in 11 Serie A appearances for AS Roma so far this campaign.

Arsenal had scouts present on Friday to watch Smalling help Giallorossi keep a clean sheet against Serie A rivals Inter Milan.

The report adds, however, that Arsenal could face fierce competition from Everton and Leicester City for Smalling’s signature next summer.