Chelsea set to sign Premier League defender in bargain deal ahead of next season

Chelsea is expected to make an offer for centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham on a free transfer. The Blues think they are close to signing a long-term contract for the 26-year-old, who will undergo an evaluation next week.

Adarabioyo is believed to be considering the transfer to compete in Europe. Newcastle and Manchester United were additionally allegedly interested in the player. Adarabioyo, the former Manchester City academy centre-back, turned down a chance to become one of Fulham's highest-paid players in April.

Chelsea hopes he can assist improve their performance regarding both attacking and defending set-pieces, as trainer Bernardo Cueva follows them from Brentford for £750,000 to develop a set-piece department.

Chelsea is looking for a new centre-back following Thiago Silva's departure, and they have the extra benefit of being able to give him European football after defeating Newcastle United in the Europa Conference League. Adarabioyo's low cost and extensive Premier League experience are part of his attraction to Chelsea, who have proven to be big spenders in the last two years. His ball skills should make him a good fit for Maresca's style of football, which emphasises possession.

Challenges ahead for potential Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca

Enzo Maresca is set to be unveiled as Chelsea's new head coach sooner rather than later. The English Premier League club's lawyers are trying to complete documentation involving the 44-year-old and his support personnel. Chelsea will be paying Leicester City approximately £10 million in severance for the Italian, who was recently picked to succeed Mauricio Pochettino.

Maresca may face an early challenge in dealing with Chelsea's desire to give away homegrown players in order to avoid concerns regarding profitability and sustainability laws. Aston Villa as well as Tottenham are interested in signing England midfielder Conor Gallagher. Adarabioyo's expected arrival may also hasten Trevoh Chalobah's exit. Manchester United along with others have identified the versatile defender as a target, with a valuation of roughly £25 million.