Chelsea have reportedly submitted a contract offer to Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo, according to Sky Sports.
Adarabioyo will leave Fulham on a free transfer this summer, and Chelsea are amongst the clubs hoping to sign him.
Chelsea had shown passive interest in the former Manchester City centre-back but have now stepped up their interest with a proposal.
The Blues are looking to reinforce their defence this summer following the departure of Thiago Silva to Fluminense.
They could also lose Trevoh Chalobah as they prepare to use the Cobham Academy graduate to balance their books.
Adarabioyo has caught the eye during his time with the Cottagers. He helped Marco Silva’s side keep six clean sheets in 20 league appearances this season.
The defender is decent aerially, winning 67% of his duels in the air. He is also deceptively quick, using his pace and strength to win 53% of his battles on the ground.
Adarabioyo reads the game well, recording 1.42 interceptions per 90 minutes, ranking him in the 72nd percentile amongst centre-backs in the top five leagues.
He has been excellent in his four years at the club and is now keen on moving on.
His performances have attracted interest from Newcastle United and Manchester United, who are also looking to reinforce their rearguard.
Newcastle are looking to add Adarabioyo and Lloyd Kelly to Eddie Howe’s squad after struggling with injuries to central defenders this term.
Sven Botman spent much of the season on the sidelines alongside Jamaal Lascelles.
The Red Devils have also had their fair share of injury concerns, with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane battling for fitness.
Adarabioyo would be a solid and shrewd addition for all parties, and they will need to present the 26-year-old with their projects to convince him.
