In the old days, Everton was once regarded as Manchester United's "shadow team", with many of the club's greats such as Kanchelskis, Phil Neville, Tim Howard, Louis Saha, Cleverley, Gibson, and Schniederlin having moved to their side. Now, the Red Devils' squad at Goodison Park is expected to welcome two new members: Sergio Romero and Smalling.
According to The Athletic, Everton are in active talks with former Argentina international goalkeeper Romero, who may be set for a free transfer to Everton when his contract expires at the end of this month.
However, last year the Toffees attempted to cover Romero's full wages by taking the 34-year-old on loan from Manchester United, but the Red Devils demanded a £5 million loan fee while the Toffees were only willing to pay 2 million, and the two sides ultimately failed to reach an agreement, resulting in the transfer fizzling out.
Now that Romero is out of contract with United without any transfer fee, Everton, as well as Serie A's Juventus and La Liga's Vigo Celta, have offered him an olive branch. Last month, Everton have contacted former United's best substitute goalkeeper Pickford in a bid to add competitive pressure, while Robin Olsen, who was on loan last year, has returned to Roma.
As well as Romero, Everton are keen to bring in former England international Smalling from Roma, with the pair having played together in the 2017 UEFA Cup final, helping United to a 2-0 win over Ajax to claim the team's most recent title.
Smolin, 31, moved permanently to the Red Wolves last year for a transfer fee of £13 million, signing a four-year contract, but his performance was not as good as in the previous loan season, and injuries have increased, making only 16 appearances. Italian sports newspaper Roma pointed out that the incoming Mourinho is dissatisfied with Smalling's foot skills, if he can find a replacement, he intends to sell him.
Mourinho had a good relationship with Smalling during his time at Manchester United, but the 'Madman' once mocked the English center-back's poor footwork, saying he was unable to play as a central defender and could not initiate passes from the back. In addition, Smalling also had an unfortunate experience in Italy, where he was robbed at his home, and may return to England to play in the Premier League for the safety of his family.
However, Mourinho's Roma have bid £18 million for Smalling, meaning they have the chance to make a £5 million difference once the deal is done. However, the UK's Daily Mail points out that Smalling is not as likely to join Everton as Romero, and may not even be able to make a successful move. As Smalling is not a fan of Everton, having rejected the team a few years ago while still at Manchester United.
