Everton have reportedly decided to renew their interest in Manchester United defender Chris Smalling.
The centre-back has spent the last eight years at Old Trafford, while the 28-year-old has made 14 appearances in the Premier League and Champions League this season.
However, Smalling is yet to pen a new contract at the North-West giants, and although United have the option of extending the player's deal until 2020, it appears that will not stop interest from elsewhere.
According to The Sun, Everton are eyeing up the signing of Smalling on a free transfer before the start of the next campaign.
The Toffees will allegedly look to sign Smalling in January if United exercise their 12-month option, and it represents a strong show of intent from the Merseyside outfit.
Manager Marco Silva has Michael Keane and Yerry Mina as long-term options in the centre of his backline, but Kurt Zouma is only on loan from Chelsea and Phil Jagielka could leave at the end of the season.
Darren Plant
