• Premier League

Manchester United yet to open contract talks with Chris Smalling

ESPN staff
March 30, 2015
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Chris Smalling has said Manchester United have yet to begin negotiations with him about a new contract but he is eager to stay at Old Trafford.

Smalling's current deal expires in 2016 and United run the risk of losing the England international -- who cost £10.5 million when he joined from Fulham in 2010 -- on a free transfer next year.

But although the defender has been linked with a move to Arsenal and has been in fine form for United recently, the club are waiting before offering him an extension.

"That is one that I have not really discussed with anyone," Smalling told a news conference.

ESPN FC reported last month that United will wait until the summer before deciding whether to offer new deals to most of the players whose current contracts run out in 2016.

Besides Smalling, that includes fellow centre-backs Phil Jones and Jonny Evans, who may be competing with one another to stay at Old Trafford as manager Louis van Gaal is expected to strengthen in the middle of the defence in the summer.

Smalling, however, said he is ready to commit his future to United, adding: "I am enjoying it. I have always enjoyed playing for United, especially at the minute. If I can contribute, as now, then I am happy to stay as long as they want me."

Van Gaal has tried a variety of centre-back combinations this season but Smalling and Jones have excelled of late.

"The manager is showing his faith in me and, if I am playing, I'm happy," Smalling said. "We have got another eight games, so we will look to finish as strong as we can."

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