Roma will almost certainly attempt to turn Chris Smalling's loan from Manchester United into a permanent deal.

That is according to Italian sports law expert and agent Filippo Pirisi.

The 29-year-old is one of the leaders of Paulo Fonseca's team after signing on loan this past summer, in a move that surprised many.

With United spoilt for choice at centre-back, Smalling was shipped out to the Italian capital.

The Englishman has taken to Serie A like a duck to water, having made nine appearances in the competition and two in the Europa League.

Reports have suggestedRoma's sporting director, Gianluca Petrachi, is already working to negotiate a permanent deal for Smalling.

Although there is still a gap between what Roma are offering and what Manchester United want, Pirisi is confident a deal will get done.

He told Tribalfootball.com: "In my opinion he will certainly be redeemed, he is showing all his value in a difficult championship as is the Serie A.

"I think that the ones who criticised the operation in the summer did not know well the player and today they must rethink the whole thing. I think he is, right now, one of the best expressions of the new Roma."

Corriere della Sera has claimed Inter Milan and Juventus are also interested in signing the former Fulham man.

The Red Devils are reportedly looking for at least £17m for Smalling.