Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo joins Chelsea on a free transfer

Premier League giants Chelsea has agreed to sign Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer, marking their first signing of the summer transfer window. The English defender will arrive at Stamford Bridge on a free transfer and has put pen to paper on a four-year deal.

He will join Chelsea on July 1 when his contract with the Cottagers expires at the end of June. The 26-year-old defender is the first player signed under the new head coach, Enzo Maresca, who was announced earlier this week.

Adarabioyo will replace the legendary Thiago Silva who announced his departure earlier this season. Maresca has worked with the defender at Manchester City and believes the 26-year-old will suit his style of play.

“We are delighted to bring Tosin to Chelsea,” Chelsea co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said in a statement.

“Throughout his career, he has showcased his maturity and defensive qualities and has gained a wealth of experience in the Premier League in recent seasons.

“He is ready to make the step up to Chelsea and work alongside the talented players in our squad. We look forward to Tosin joining up with us for pre-season.”

Tosin has made 20 appearances for the Cottagers last season, scoring twice and helping Fulham finish 13th in the league standings.

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Did Manchester United try to hijack the deal?

It is reported that Premier League giants Manchester United and Newcastle United were huge admirers of the England international, who has made 78 appearances in the top flight.

With Erik ten Hag’s still up in the air, Manchester United delayed their approach for the Manchester-born defender. But Chelsea reportedly offered him an improved financial deal, which was rubber-stamped on Friday morning.

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