“Here we go”: Fabrizio Romano confirms ex-Man United ace Chris Smalling set for unexpected move

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Former Manchester United defender Chris Smalling is reportedly poised to complete a move to FC Porto, with the reliable Fabrizio Romano confirming the news.

United stint

United signed Smalling from Fulham in January 2010, paying a fee of around £7 million for him. His transfer was sanctioned by the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson.

Smalling made his United debut as a substitute in the 2010 FA Community Shield victory over Chelsea. He won the Premier League in his maiden season and then again in 2012/13, the last time United lifted England’s most prestigious trophy.

While at United, the Englishman also collected an FA Cup, a League Cup, and the UEFA Europa League.

Smalling played under Sir Alex, David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He enjoyed his most consistent spell under Van Gaal and Mourinho, when he started regularly and matured into one of the team’s most reliable defenders.

He made more than 300 appearances for the Red Devils before departing for AS Roma.

The 36-year-old initially moved to Roma on a season-long loan and impressed. The transfer was made permanent in October 2020. He enjoyed a steady spell in Italy, the highlight of which was being named man of the match in the 2022 UEFA Europa Conference League final as Roma beat Feyenoord 1–0 to win the inaugural edition of the competition under Mourinho.

Smalling then continued his career in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Fayha. He departed the club in the summer of 2026 as a free agent.

Now, it has emerged that Smalling will continue his journey in Europe at Porto!

New adventure

Romano wrote on X, “FC Porto agree deal to sign Chris Smalling, here we go!”

“Deal done for the English centre back joining as free agent.”

“Medical underway right now for English defender joining Porto.”

Porto have won all seven of their league fixtures this season and already possess a five-point advantage over Benfica, who lie second.