Chris Smalling could remain at Roma past the expiry of his current loan deal, according to an agent who helped facilitate the transfer.
Smalling departed United after finding himself down the pecking order at Old Trafford following the arrival of Harry Maguire.
Serie A might have been considered an unlikely destination for the former England international, but he will be looking to resurrect his career after failing to hold down a regular starting spot in recent seasons.
The defender found himself on the bench as Roma drew 1-1 at rivals Lazio this weekend, but will have his eyes set on a starting berth in the coming weeks.
Although his move is temporary, an agent who helped arrange the loan has suggested the spell in Italy could be extended if Smalling impresses at Roma.
Giulio Meozzi, who acted as an intermediary in the move, says the move could be a turning point for both Smalling and Roma.
TuttoMercatoWeb (via SportWitness) quote Meozzi as saying: "An important transfer There is a possibility of making a dry loan, with the option to keep for next year and that depends on his performances.
“Roma has done good business and has also been able to sell well. Smalling was an important operation just as that of Zappacosta.”
Smalling is under contract at United until 2022, and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has suggested he will be welcomed back at Old Trafford next summer.
“At the moment we've got six centre-backs,” the Norwegian said last week.
“This is just something that popped up towards the end [of the European transfer window] in the last couple of days.
"Chris fancied the chance to go over there; it's a new experience, new adventure. He'll come back better for it because it's a big club, it's a good league. There aren't too many English players who have been playing in Italy so I think he'll enjoy it.”
