Newcastle United are eyeing Manchester United defender Chris Smalling.

The Evening Chronicle says Smalling has been offered to Newcastle and a clutch of other top-flight sides after Serie A outfit AS Roma spluttered over his £20million asking price.

The England international spent last term on loan in Italy but has returned to Old Trafford this summer.

It is believed that Newcastle ran the rule over Smalling last season, but whether the chance to sign him in a transfer window that has financial limitations proves a temptation for United remains to be seen.

Smalling, who Fulham are keen on signing, is unlikely to stay at Man United as he would be down the pecking order despite having a good rapport with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.