Chelsea Football Club is making moves to secure the signature of Nigerian player Tosin Adarabioyo, who is set to become a free agent when his contract with Fulham expires in June.
Reports indicated that Chelsea has offered the 26-year-old defender a contract, aiming to outmaneuver Newcastle United, who are also in talks with Adarabioyo.
Despite being close to appointing Enzo Maresca as their next manager, Chelsea seems determined to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
The club is reportedly eyeing a striker, a center-back, a left-back, and possibly a goalkeeper in the summer transfer window.
Adarabioyo, a product of the Manchester City academy, has attracted interest from several clubs, including Manchester United.
However, Chelsea’s offer could sway the decision in their favor. With Thiago Silva’s departure and the expected sale of Trevoh Chalobah, Chelsea is keen to bolster their defensive options and values Adarabioyo at around £25 million.
The prospect of signing Adarabioyo on a free transfer presents Chelsea with an opportunity for savvy business, allowing them to allocate funds to other areas of the squad and potentially boosting their homegrown player quota.
Adarabioyo’s connections with current Chelsea players and staff from their time at Manchester City could also be a factor in Chelsea’s pursuit of the defender.