Roma have kicked off negotiations to buy Chris Smalling from Manchester United.
Sky Italia says Roma management have seen enough to buy him outright.
Smalling is on-loan with Roma this season and while he hasn't pulled up any trees, the England defender is wanted permanently.
Roma chief Gianluca Petrachi has launched talks with United about a fee.
The Giallorossi paid 3m for Smalling's season-long deal.
