Former Manchester United and England defender, Chris Smalling, is set to continue his career in Portugal after agreeing to join FC Porto on a free transfer.
The 36-year-old centre-back is currently in Porto to complete his medical and finalise the move.
Smalling has been without a club since leaving Saudi Pro League side Al-Fayha at the end of the 2025/26 season. Reports indicate that Porto have agreed a one-year contract with an option for a further year.
The move will mark Smalling’s return to European football after two seasons in Saudi Arabia. During his time at Al-Fayha, he made more than 60 appearances before becoming a free agent.
Smalling previously spent a decade with Manchester United after joining from Fulham in 2010. He made 323 appearances for the club and won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League, among other honours.
Porto’s decision to bring in the experienced defender comes as the club deals with defensive injury concerns. The Portuguese champions have also made an impressive start to the 2026/27 campaign, winning their opening seven league matches.
