Man Utd outcast Phil Jones to be offered Premier League lifeline by Newcastle in summer transfer

MANCHESTER UNITED defender Phil Jones could be handed a Premier League lifeline with Newcastle interested, according to reports.

According to the Mirror, Steve Bruce's side are considering a £12million move for the 28-year-old who has become an outcast an Old Trafford.

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Jones was tipped to be a future star when Sir Alex Ferguson signed him in 2011 but injuries have plagued his career.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has continued with a back three of Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, resulting in Jones struggling for playing time.

Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe have been the preferred backups to the first choice trio.

Jones has only made eight appearances for the club this season, his last coming against Tranmere in January, but Newcastle could give the former Blackburn defender a chance to resurrect his career.

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Despite struggling with injuries during his time at United, Jones penned a new deal last year to keep him at the club until 2023 but it appears Solskjaer is ready to make room in his squad in preparation for a busy summer transfer window.

Another centre-back Solskjaer could be moving on is Chris Smalling, who is on loan at Roma until the end of the season.

Smalling has impressed during his time in Italy, catching the attention of Arsenal and Spurs who, according to reports, are considering a £25m bid for the 30-year-old.

Everton are also said to plotting a raid for the United outcast.

Last month, Roma boss Paulo Fonseca said: "Is it possible Smalling stays here at Roma? Yes.

"He is a very strong player and has had an immediate connection with Italian football.

"He is a great player, very important for us and likes to live in Rome."

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Smalling and Jones could join Alexis Sanchez out the door at Old Trafford with Solskjaer keen to move the Chilean winger on after a disappointing loan spell at Inter Milan.

Solskjaer is hoping to make room for a summer spending spree with reports suggesting the club are chasing Fiorentina forward Federico Chiesa.

According to Le 10 Sport, Juventus and Inter Milan are also interested in Chiesa, who is valued at around £54m.