Man United’s decision to offer a new deal to £80,000-a-week star could turn out to be fruitful

Why Manchester United offering a new contract to Chris Smalling is right

According to reports in the Daily Star, Manchester United centre-back Chris Smalling is expected to sign a new deal. It has come as a bit of a surprise because the Englishman was linked with a move away from Old Trafford.

The 28-year-old has less than 12 months remaining in his contract and an extension of it could be offered any time this season. This news comes after the player was kept in the periphery of the squad with Jose Mourinho getting new centre-backs. In fact, Smalling’s luxury £2m Cheshire was spotted up for sale last week. (Daily Star)

Arsenal were interested in signing him in January but they couldn’t (h/t Express). However, in any case, United are doing the right thing by offering a new contract to the player. Here’s why:

There is quality

It was pretty evident that Jose Mourinho was more than eager to buy a new centre-back this summer as they were linked with a move for Harry Maguire. It looks like the Portuguese didn’t have too much faith in the four he already has. One of them is Smalling, who was on the fringes under the current manager, starting only 41 games in the last two seasons.

The Englishman has the attributes of a high-class centre-back but his consistency lets him down. He blows hot and cold, which means that it is too unsafe for the gaffer to trust the player. He wasn’t selected for the World Cup and Mourinho didn’t fancy giving him regular starts either.

However, the scenario has changed to an extent. Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof, both of whom were bought by the current manager, are looking circumspect at the back. Hence, Smalling was given his chances and truth be told, the 28-year-old hasn’t disappointed. He is probably been the best out of the lot this season. However, the comparison is made from a shallow bar.

Verdict

It’s clear why Manchester United are looking to give Smalling a new contract. He is currently on £80,000-a-week and a rise is expected.

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There’s no guarantee if Man United will be able to sign their preferred targets in January, given that it didn’t happen in the summer. Hence, it would be wise on their part to keep hold of the players they currently have at their disposal.