AS Roma are delighted to confirm the signing of defender Chris Smalling on a year-long loan deal.

Smalling, 29, joins the Giallorossi from Manchester United until 30 June 2020.

The Giallorossi will pay the Premier League side a €3 million fee as part of the deal.

Smalling will wear the No. 6 shirt at Roma.

“This is the perfect opportunity for me,” Smalling said.

“The chance to experience a new league, with a big team that has got big aspirations is exactly what I needed.

"Hopefully I can hit the ground running. I’m looking forward to joining up with my teammates.”

Smalling, an England international, made 323 appearances for United during nine years at the club – winning the Premier League on two occasions.

“We are pleased to bring a player like Chris, who has so much experience, to Roma,” said Roma sporting director Gianluca Petrachi.

“We are convinced he will help the growth of this squad and all the lads he plays alongside.”

The former Maidstone United and Fulham centre-back becomes the club’s eighth signing of the summer – following the likes of Pau Lopez, Leonardo Spinazzola, Jordan Veretout and Gianluca Mancini.