Everton have joined the interest in Manchester United defender Chris Smalling.

Gazzetta dello Sport says the Blues were interested in signing the defender from United last summer but Roma managed to secure a year-long loan move for Smalling.

But the Italian outfit will be unable to meet United's £25m asking price.

And Roma's chances of signing Smalling on a permanent deal are decreasing.

This news is said to have handed a boost to a number of clubs including Everton, Arsenal and Tottenham.