-
Chelsea ‘closing in to make Adarabioyo their first signing under Maresca
Chelsea are reportedly closing in on signing Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo.
The 26-year-old center-back will become a free agent at the end of the month, and his representatives have been in talks with both Chelsea and Newcastle.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Chelsea have moved ahead of Newcastle in the race for Adarabioyo and are closing in on a deal. Romano claims that Chelsea are now “clear favourites” but the club remains “cautious” until the deal is finalized.
If the deal goes through, Adarabioyo could become the first signing under incoming Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca.
Talks with Maresca have progressed smoothly all week, and an announcement is expected soon. Leicester City would be due compensation from Maresca’s switch to Chelsea.
Maresca would succeed Mauricio Pochettino, who parted ways with Chelsea by mutual consent after a single season in charge, during which the Blues finished sixth in the Premier League.
Reports, previously revealed that several clubs, including Manchester United, had shown interest in Adarabioyo. The defender made 22 appearances for Fulham this season, scoring twice, and has spent the last four seasons with the West London club.
Chelsea, who also admire Newcastle target goalkeeper James Trafford of Burnley, want to increase their homegrown quota, and Adarabioyo represents excellent value. His signing would be a blow to the Magpies, who are keen to strengthen their defense.
While Manchester United’s FA Cup final victory pushed them out of Europe next season, Chelsea will be playing in the Europa Conference League.
Despite greater competition for a first-team place at Chelsea, the club is looking to sell Trevoh Chalobah for around £25 million, which could open up opportunities for Adarabioyo.