Chelsea are optimistic about signing Fulham center-back Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer, beating out Newcastle.
Newcastle had been leading the race for Adarabioyo, a former Manchester City defender, and had been working on the deal for weeks.
However, Chelsea made a late move and offered Adarabioyo a better financial package, making it likely he will choose them.
Adarabioyo, who is available on a free transfer after deciding not to renew his contract with Fulham, wants to play at the highest level.
Chelsea are in need of a new center-back after Thiago Silva’s departure and can offer Adarabioyo European football, having secured a Europa Conference League spot over Newcastle.
Chelsea, known for their significant spending in the past two years, see Adarabioyo as a cost-effective option with Premier League experience.
His skills fit well with the playing style of Enzo Maresca, who is set to be announced as Chelsea’s new head coach.
The club is finalizing paperwork for Maresca and his team, having agreed to pay Leicester City around £10 million in compensation.
An early challenge for Maresca will be Chelsea’s plans to sell homegrown players to comply with profitability and sustainability regulations.
Conor Gallagher is a target for Aston Villa and Tottenham, while Adarabioyo’s arrival might push Trevoh Chalobah towards a transfer to Manchester United, potentially for around £25 million.
Despite Chalobah’s regular appearances late in the season, Chelsea already strengthened their defense last summer by signing Benoît Badiashile and Axel Disasi. They also have Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana, who is recovering from a long-term knee injury.
KanyiDaily recalls that Chelsea recently agreed to appoint Enzo Maresca as their new manager on a five-year deal, following the departure of Mauricio Pochettino from Stamford Bridge.
