Tosin Adarabioyo, a center back for Fulham, is available on a free transfer, and Chelsea is certain they can sign him before Newcastle.
After a few weeks of negotiations, Newcastle emerged as the front-runner for the former Manchester City defender. However, despite providing Adarabioyo with a more lucrative offer than Eddie Howe’s team, Chelsea, who were hoping to finalize the first signing of the Enzo Maresca era, were unable to thwart a late move.
Adarabioyo has chosen not to extend his contract at Fulham and is available on a free transfer. He is eager to prove himself at the greatest level.
With Thiago Silva’s departure, Chelsea is in need of a new center defender. They also have the benefit of being able to give the 26-year-old European football after beating Newcastle to a Europa Conference League slot.
Adarabioyo’s affordability and plenty of Premier League experience are two factors that Chelsea, who have been heavy spenders over the last two years, find appealing. His skill with the ball should fit in well with Maresca’s style of football, which emphasizes possession above all else.
Maresca is expected to be named Chelsea’s next head coach shortly. The 44-year-old and his backroom crew are awaiting final papers from the club’s attorneys. The Italian, who has been selected to succeed Mauricio Pochettino, will cost Chelsea almost £10 million in compensation, according to Leicester City.
Chelsea’s intention to sell its own players in an effort to circumvent issues with sustainability and profitability may be one of Maresca’s initial challenges. The England midfielder Conor Gallagher is being pursued by Tottenham and Aston Villa. The approaching arrival of Adarabioyo might also expedite Trevoh Chalobah’s departure. Manchester United is reportedly interested in the adaptable defender, who may fetch up to £25 million.
Chalobah was a regular at the conclusion of the season, but Chelsea signed Benoît Badiashile and Axel Disasi in the summer to strengthen their central defense options. They may also call upon Wesley Fofana, who has been sidelined due to a long-term knee injury, and Levi Colwill.