Football rumours from the media

What the papers say

Manchester United’s Chris Smalling is wanted by Everton on a free transfer when his deal runs out next summer, The Sun reports. The 28-year-old defender has already held talks over a new contract at Old Trafford, but the Toffees are hoping to land him next July, the paper says. Marco Silva is said to have sent scouts to watch him in action.

Meanwhile, United are pressing on with contract talks with goalkeeper David De Gea amid fears he could leave at the end of the season, the London Evening Standard says. The Spain international has yet to commit his long-term future to the club despite months of negotiations, and United intend to trigger a 12-month option on his contract which expires this summer, the paper reports.

Chelsea are prepared to listen to loan offers for captain Gary Cahill in January, the Daily Mail reports. The defender’s contract expires at the end of the season but Chelsea will still allow him to leave on loan, the paper says, with Cahill having only made one Premier League appearance since the arrival of Maurizio Sarri. There is likely to be no shortage of interest, with West Ham and Southampton both having made enquiries in the summer, the paper adds.

Players to watch

Kaio Jorge: Chelsea have been tracking the Santos teenager, according to the Daily Mail. Scouts have been monitoring his performances for Brazil’s youth sides as interest grows in the 16-year-old forward, the paper says.