Chelsea open to selling Adarabioyo as European clubs circle

Chelsea are prepared to sell defender Tosin Adarabioyo following sustained interest from two major European clubs, identified as Benfica and Marseille. The shift in transfer dynamics comes after Adarabioyo’s absence from a recent preseason friendly, which has reportedly heightened the attention from continental suitors.

According to reporting by Sky Sports, the London-based club is willing to facilitate a departure provided the financial terms are favourable. Because Adarabioyo was originally signed on a free transfer from Fulham, Chelsea are not bound by a specific valuation floor and are focused on maximising the financial return from any sale.

The interest in the former Fulham player represents a change in market priority for the club. Earlier in the summer, the focus for potential exits lay with higher-valued assets such as Trevoh Chalobah or younger players requiring regular first-team minutes like Mamadou Sarr. However, current market conditions suggest a stronger demand for Adarabioyo than for several of his teammates.

The club’s defensive surplus remains a key factor in the potential move. With squad space limited to approximately five centre-backs, the departure of Adarabioyo would alleviate pressure on the roster. Leadership responsibilities previously held by the defender are now being assumed by new squad additions Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck, removing a potential barrier to a transfer.

Sky Sports indicates that a solid offer could be finalised in the next few days, potentially leading to a swift conclusion to Adarabioyo’s time at Stamford Bridge. The identity of the player who will replace him as the fifth centre-back remains to be determined. This potential exit occurs as Chelsea prepare for the arrival of new manager Xabi Alonso on 1 July, following the recent appointment of interim manager Calum McFarlane.