Roma are closing on a permanent deal for Manchester United defender Chris Smalling.

Smalling's loan spell in Serie A has been a roaring success, with him back to his best after rediscovering the confidence he lost at Old Trafford.

The two clubs are in advanced talks, with Roma increasing their bid to £12.8m plus £2.5m in bonuses for the defender, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

United are reportedly chasing £17m for Smalling, with the Italian side already playing £2.5m for the one-year loan.

It is also said that the 30-year-old is set to sign a five-year contract.