Chelsea close in on Premier League star as Maresca's first signing - Romano

Tom Weber

• Updated: 1 Jun 2024 11:51 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea are closing in on a deal to sign Tosin Adarabioyo, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Fulham defender has become one of the Premier League's most in-demand players due to being out of contract this summer. A solid top-flight centre-back, the former Man City academy graduate has no shortage of suitors after some impressive performances for the Cottagers.

The 26-year-old had no intention of extending his stay at Craven Cottage and sides in England and abroad have been battling for his signature for months. In recent weeks, two clear favourites ultimately crystallised: Chelsea and Newcastle.

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The Magpies have been trying to engineer a deal for some time, with Eddie Howe desperate to add proven Premier League quality to his squad after a disappointing season. Newcastle are also in talks to snap up Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth on a free transfer.

However, it appears that Howe and company will not be able to secure the services of Adarabioyo.

Chelsea to seal deal

At least that is according to Fabrizio Romano, who has revealed on X that Chelsea are closing in on a deal to sign the centre-back. The Blues are in the market for a replacement for Thiago Silva and it appears that they have found their man.

However, despite Chelsea making very good progress in recent days, Romano still made sure to urge caution. Though a deal is close, it is not yet officially wrapped up and Newcastle are still trying to interfere.

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It does look as though Adarabioyo will become the first signing of the Enzo Maresca era. Intriguingly, the player ended his 18-year stint at Man City two months after Maresca took charge of the club's reserves back in 2020. The Italian also has existing relationships with Chelsea players Cole Palmer and Romeo Lavia.