Rumour: Arsenal looking at Manchester United's Chris Smalling to replace Bacary Sagna

Chris Smalling (L)

Arsenal have been linked with a shock move for Manchester United defender Chris Smalling. Goal report that Arsene Wenger is keen on signing the England defender and is even willing to pay up to £12 million for his services.

Wenger was interested in Smalling when the former Maidstone man moved from Fulham to United in 2010 and his admiration for the centre back has not waned.

Such a move would be a shock for a number of reasons. While it is not without precedent, with Robin van Persie moving to Old Trafford two years ago and Mikel Silvestre making a somewhat less acrimonious reverse move in 2008, moves between Manchester United and Arsenal are rare.

Smalling has played 22 times in the Premier League this season, impressing in patches but yet to fully secure either a permanent role at either centre back or right back. While he has featured regularly for United since his move, injuries have restricted his progress and a £12 million bid would come as a shock for a player yet to demonstrate consistent top level performances.

Adding to the surprise, Goal also believe that Wenger sees Smalling as the heir to Bacary Sagna. The French international is out of contract at the end of the season and has yet to sign a new deal at the Emirates.

Smalling has filled in at right back for United on various occasions, but his long term future is usually seen as a centre back rather than a right back.

Smalling has won 63% of his headed duels this season.