FC Porto ‘to sign’ Chris Smalling on short-term deal | OneFootball

A Bola reports that FC Porto are closing in on signing veteran defender Chris Smalling, the free agent having arrived in Portugal to finalise a deal with the reigning champions.

The 36-year-old, recently with Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro League, is expected to agree a contract running to the end of the current season, with medical checks in the city before he signs.

The move would bolster head coach Francesco Farioli’s options after defensive injuries. Nehuen Perez has endured recurring problems, briefly returning against Manchester City earlier in September before being sidelined again.

Smalling brings sizeable experience, with 31 England caps and appearances at the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2016. He was a regular in Saudi Arabia, playing 28 times and demonstrating his durability.

He spent a decade at Manchester United, winning two Premier League titles, then revived his career at Roma by lifting the inaugural UEFA Europa Conference League. He has previously highlighted Jose Mourinho’s trust in him and the mentality it fostered.

His arrival would give Farioli scope to rotate during a congested schedule, with an announcement expected soon. Club management have been praised by president Andre Villas-Boas for recruitment strategy, and a free transfer for an established international fits those aims.

Source: Goal.com

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