Chris Smalling Set to Join Porto on Free Transfer

FC Porto have reached an agreement to sign experienced centre-back Chris Smalling, with the former Manchester United and Roma defender set to continue his career in Portugal.

The 36-year-old Englishman is currently a free agent after leaving Saudi Arabian club Al-Fayha at the end of last season. Reports from Portugal indicate that Smalling has already arrived in Porto and is completing the final steps before putting pen to paper. 

The move would see Smalling return to European football after two seasons in Saudi Arabia. The veteran defender previously spent four years with Roma following a long spell at Manchester United, where he made more than 300 appearances and won two Premier League titles. 

Porto Add Experience to Their Defence

Porto have been looking for additional depth in central defence, with injuries affecting their available options.

Smalling’s experience could therefore provide another solution for head coach Francesco Farioli. He would compete for a place alongside defenders including Jan Bednarek and Jakub Kiwior, while Nehuén Pérez has also been dealing with an injury problem. 

The English defender would bring considerable European experience to the squad. During his career, he has played for Fulham, Manchester United, Roma and Al-Fayha, while also earning 31 international caps for England. 

Smalling’s Return to European Football

Smalling left Manchester United after nearly a decade at Old Trafford before establishing himself in Serie A with Roma.

His time in Italy included winning the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022 under José Mourinho. After leaving Roma, he moved to Saudi Arabia and spent two seasons with Al-Fayha.

Now, Porto are offering the defender an opportunity to return to European competition.

Recent reports indicate that the agreement is expected to run through the end of the season, although other reports have suggested a contract lasting until June 2027 with a possible extension. The final contractual details should become clearer once the signing is officially completed. 

For Porto, the signing represents an opportunity to add an experienced defender without paying a transfer fee, while Smalling gets another chance to compete at the highest level of European club football.