Chris Smalling has arrived in Italy to complete his move to Serie A giants Roma.

Despite initial reluctance from the 29-year old, Smalling agreed late on Thursday night to the season loan though there is no plan to make the move permanent.

The centre back signed a new contract with United last December and had hoped to remain at Old Trafford.

He has not figured in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad since the arrival of £80m signing Harry Maguire.

Explaining the decision, Solskjaer said: ‘It’s just come over the last couple of days, this opportunity,’ Solskjaer added. ‘We sat down yesterday and discussed it.

‘We’ve got six fit centre backs at the moment and I couldn’t promise him regular football. He’s on the plane over now and he’ll enjoy the experience there.

‘A big club and a big league. Not many Englishman have had the chance in Italy.

‘I can see maybe Matteo (Darmian leaving). There is interest over in Italy. Marcos (Rojo) is staying, definitely. We’ve a squad now that’s less in numbers that is still big and strong enough to have cover in all positions.’

Smalling has not made the bench for any of United’s opening three games this season, with academy product Axel Tuanzebe preferred among the substitutes.

United have seven centre backs and saw a move from Everton for Marcos Rojo fall through earlier this month.

United full back Matteo Darmian meanwhile has interest from Parma among other Italian clubs.