Roma Sporting Director Tiago Pinto feels that at this stage, the future of Inter-linked defender Chris Smalling is very much in the player’s hands.
Speaking in a press conference, as reported by FCInterNews, the Giallorossi executive stressed that the decision about where the 33-year-old will play his football is entirely at the discretion of the player.
Smalling’s current contract with Roma is set to run out at the end of June.
The former Manchester United defender would have the option of extending his deal by an additional season according to reports, whilst the Giallorossi have also offered him a new two-year contract, albeit at reduced wages.
Meanwhile, Inter would likely be keen on signing Smalling on a free transfer to replace Stefan de Vrij if the Dutchman were to depart at the end of his own contract.
The Englishman has yet to make a conclusive decision on whether to extend his deal with the Giallorossi or leave for a new club at the end of the season.
“Smalling will have the right to make his own decision,” Pinto said.
“We’ve been in contacts with his agent, the will is to continue on together, but we’ll see what happens.”
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