Chelsea has officially signed centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham on a free transfer, the Premier League club announced on Friday. The 26-year-old defender will join the Blues on a four-year contract starting July 1.
Adarabioyo, who has one cap for England U-19s and 78 Premier League appearances, becomes the first new signing under Chelsea’s new head coach Enzo Maresca. His arrival will strengthen Chelsea’s defensive lineup, especially following the departure of veteran Thiago Silva.
Chelsea’s Sporting Directors Welcome Adarabioyo:
“We are delighted to bring Tosin to Chelsea,” said Chelsea co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley. “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.”
Adarabioyo’s Excitement:
“I’m looking forward to starting work with Enzo and I’m sure the boys are too,” Adarabioyo said. “It’s going to be exciting. We’re going to play good football and win a lot of games. There are top players in this squad and I’m eager to play with them all.”
Chelsea aims to bounce back under Maresca’s leadership after a sixth-place finish last season. The addition of Adarabioyo is seen as a crucial step towards solidifying their defense and enhancing their performance in the upcoming season.