Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Tosin Adarabioyo as the first new arrival of the Enzo Maresca era.
The defender had interest from Manchester United and Newcastle but the Blues moved to hijack their attempts and have now sealed the deal on a four-year contract.
He will replace Thiago Silva in the Blues squad, with the veteran having returned to former club Fluminense upon the expiration of his contract.
Chelsea value Adarabioyo’s ball-playing ability and his aerial presence as they look to take their squad forward under the stewardship of new boss Maresca.
The 26-year-old was born in London but raised in Manchester before returning to the capital after a spell with Man City’s academy by joining Fulham in 2020.
Adarabioyo hailed his Chelsea move as the moment his career has come right back to its starting point.
Tosin is a BLUE! 💙✍️ pic.twitter.com/BXXnaHI0UZ
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) June 7, 2024
“Chelsea is a huge club and this is a full-circle moment for me,” said Adarabioyo, who was born in London but raised in Manchester.
“I was born three miles away from Stamford Bridge and made my professional debut there.
“I’m very excited and looking forward to helping push the club in the direction we want to go.”
Chelsea’s co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart have been crucial in Adarabioyo’s recruitment, with new boss Maresca also approving of the free-transfer acquisition.
“We are delighted to bring Tosin to Chelsea,” said Winstanley and Stewart in a joint 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.”
Standard Sport understands Chelsea are prepared to raid another London rival in Crystal Palace.
Michael Olise was tracked by the Blues last summer before signing a new contract at Selhurst Park but Chelsea are prepared to renew their interest in the 22-year-old.
