Jamie O’Hara comments on reported Tottenham target Chris Smalling

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Jamie O’Hara is a big fan of Manchester United defender Chris Smalling, who is reportedly wanted by Tottenham ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 30-year-old is currently enjoying some excellent form during a season-long loan at Italian club Roma and looks back to his best after departing Old Trafford in the summer.

He’s made 323 appearances for United, but was shipped out on loan after becoming a bit of a scapegoat.

According to Italian publication Calciomercato, Serie A side Roma are working on a deal to try sign Smalling on a permanent basis for next season.

It is understood that Roma are prepared to offer £13million for the centre-back, but that United want closer to £17million for his sale.

But the report details that there is also interest from Spurs in the 31-time capped England international.

“I like Chris Smalling. I think he had a bad time at Man United and come under a bit of scrutiny because of where they were at the time, but he’s gone out to Italy and he’s playing well,” O’Hara told Sky Sports Main Event channel (11:00pm, 2 March).

“I’ve always rated him as an England international. I think Tottenham need to rebuild and they have started the process.”

TBR’s View:

Smalling has reignited his stuttering career since his move to Rome and it will be interesting to see if he comes into the plans of England boss Gareth Southgate.

The 6ft 4in star is a colossus defender that is great in the air and he’s capable in playing out from the back too, something he’s shown during his career.

His £17million valuation is surely a tempting one for Spurs, as they have struggled in the heart of defence for most of the season and it’s an area that needs an upgrade.

But Jose Mourinho’s side would be taking a risk in bringing Smalling back to the Premier League and should perhaps look elsewhere for a younger talent.