Arsenal transfer target Chris Smalling 'happy to stay' at Manchester United - but contract negotiations yet to start

England defender understood to be interesting the Gunners

Chris Smalling (GETTY IMAGES)

Chris Smalling has indicated he wants to remain at Manchester United amid speculation he could be the subject of a summer bid from Arsenal.

The England international will have just 12 months to run on his contract at the end of the season, leading to speculation he could leave Old Trafford once the current campaign is out. According to reports, Arsenal are ready to test United's resolve with a £12m bid.

Whilst Smalling has revealed that contract negotiations at Old Trafford have not begun, the former Fulham player would like to remain at the club.

"Yes, I do," Smalling said when asked if he wanted to stay at United long term.

"I am enjoying it. I always have, and if I can contribute then I am happy to stay for as long as they want me."

When asked if he was happy to wait until the end of the season to start negotiations, Smalling replied: "Yeah, and finish as strong as we can.

"If I can contribute as much as I can then I will be very happy.

"I have not even really discussed it with anyone.

"It's a case of the manager showing his faith in me and if I am playing I am happy and we have another eight games to finish as strong as we can.

"There aren't any negotiations (under way) that I am aware of. I don't really take care of that."

Smalling is in contention to play in England's friendly against Italy on Tuesday night having been an unused substitute in the 4-0 Euro 2016 qualifier against Lithuania.