Chelsea has secured the services of Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer, with the 26-year-old committing to a four-year deal with the Blues.
Adarabioyo, whose current contract with Fulham expires at the end of the month, is set to make the switch to Chelsea with the aim of competing in European competitions, following Chelsea’s qualification for the upcoming Europa Conference League.
Previously part of Manchester City’s academy, Adarabioyo declined an offer from Fulham in April, where he was poised to become one of the club’s highest-paid players.
“Chelsea is a huge club and this is a full-circle moment for me. I was born three miles away from Stamford Bridge and made my professional debut there,” Adarabioyo said.
“I’m very excited and looking forward to helping push the club in the direction we want to go.”
Chelsea is optimistic that Adarabioyo’s presence will enhance their performance in both offensive and defensive set-piece situations, as coach Bernardo Cueva comes on board in a £750,000 deal from Brentford to establish a specialized set-piece department.
Adarabioyo’s addition may expedite the departure of Chelsea academy defender Trevoh Chalobah, who is reportedly available for sale this summer, with Manchester United expressing interest.
Furthermore, 39-year-old Thiago Silva is set to depart Chelsea to reunite with Brazilian club Fluminense.