Former Manchester United and England defender Chris Smalling has signed for Portuguese league leaders Porto following his departure from Saudi Pro League club Al-Fayha during the summer.
The 36-year-old had been without a team and had earlier been rumoured with a switch to Rangers, though that transfer never happened. Smalling has now put pen to paper on a deal with Porto that runs until the end of the season, including an option to prolong the arrangement by a further year.
Chris Smalling joins Porto
Smalling was determined to carry on a professional journey spanning 19 years that started at non-league Maidstone. The centre-back subsequently transferred to Fulham before making the move to Manchester United, where he claimed five major honours.
His spell at Old Trafford featured two Premier League crowns, while he went on to continue his career at Roma. Smalling assisted the Italian side in securing the UEFA Conference League under Jose Mourinho in 2022.
The defender also earned 31 caps for England throughout his international career.
Porto top the Portuguese league
Smalling arrives at Porto with the club occupying first place in the Portuguese league. Francesco Farioli’s team have triumphed in all seven of their league fixtures this season and possess a five-point cushion over second-placed Benfica.
Porto’s domestic performances have been impressive, even though their Champions League run kicked off with a home loss to Manchester City.
Smalling agrees to contract until 2027
The deal provides Smalling an opportunity to prolong his 19-year professional career in Portugal. His initial Porto contract lasts until the conclusion of the current season, while the club holds an option for an additional year.
After stints with Maidstone, Fulham, Manchester United, Roma, and Al-Fayha, the seasoned defender will now carry on his career with the Portuguese league leaders.