Manchester United have confirmed the signing of 20 year old centre half Chris Smalling from Fulham for a reported £8million fee. Smalling had been the pursued by Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, however the defender will join the Champions in the summer ready for the 2010/11 season.
The signing of the England U21 International could be an indication that Nemanja Vidic will leave the club in the summer. There have been numerous reports linking the Serb with a move to Spain, with Barcelona or Real Madrid as the likely destination. Smalling has made eight appearances so far this season for Fulham and was an unused substitute in the 3-0 defeat to Fulham in December.
A United spokesperson released the following statement:
“Manchester United has agreed terms for the transfer of Chris Smalling from Fulham. Chris has agreed personal terms with the club and will join for the beginning of the 2010/2011 campaign. He will remain at Fulham until the end of the current season.”