Former Man Utd defender Smalling signs for Porto

Former Manchester United and England defender Chris Smalling has agreed terms with Portuguese league leaders Porto. The 36‑year‑old centre‑back, who has been unattached since departing Saudi Pro League side Al‑Fayha this summer, was also linked with a transfer to Rangers, though that move fell through. Smalling has signed a deal that runs until the end of the current season, with an additional‑year option built in. Porto have opened the league campaign with seven victories from seven matches, establishing a five‑point lead over rivals Benfica. Meanwhile, head coach Francesco Farioli’s side suffered a home defeat to Manchester City in their opening Champions League fixture. Smalling said he was eager to prolong a professional career that now spans 19 years, which began at non‑league Maidstone. After spells with Fulham and Manchester United — where he collected five major honours, including two Premier League titles — he moved to Roma, adding the UEFA Conference League trophy under José Mourinho in 2022 to his résumé. The defender has also earned 31 caps for England.