Manchester United could make a late move for Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo as they look to add more experience and depth to their backline before the transfer window shuts.
The 28-year-old centre-back, who is eligible to play for Nigeria, has reportedly been made available to United, giving Michael Carrick another option as he assesses his defensive needs.
Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs reports that Chelsea are open to Adarabioyo leaving, with the defender potentially available as a squad player at Old Trafford.
Adarabioyo arrived at Chelsea from Fulham on a free transfer in 2024 and has since featured 38 times in the Premier League for the club. But his position has become less secure following Chelsea’s £52 million capture of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace.
The arrival has increased competition for places in Chelsea’s defence, with the club also keen to give greater opportunities to younger players, including Levi Colwill and Josh Acheampong.
Adarabioyo is therefore facing an uncertain future in west London, and interest from elsewhere is beginning to grow. Marseille, Benfica and Aston Villa have all reportedly monitored his situation.
A potential move to Old Trafford would also carry a sense of unfinished business.
Adarabioyo was heavily linked with Manchester United in 2024 and was reportedly close to joining the club before ultimately choosing Chelsea. Two years later, the possibility of him wearing the famous red shirt has resurfaced.
United’s interest comes amid growing concerns over their defensive options. The club endured a difficult start to the campaign, losing 2-0 to newly promoted Hull City, while injuries have further complicated Carrick’s selection choices.
United currently have Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martínez, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven available as central defensive options, although fitness issues have limited some of those players.
The Red Devils are also considering other defensive targets, including Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis. Chelsea youngster Acheampong has reportedly attracted interest too, although the Blues are reluctant to part with the highly rated defender.
For Adarabioyo, leaving Chelsea could offer the chance to revive his career and secure regular football, while a move to United would put him back in the spotlight at one of England’s biggest clubs.
His Nigerian connection could make the story even more interesting. The defender is eligible to represent the Super Eagles through his heritage and has previously indicated that he would be open to playing for Nigeria, despite having represented England at youth level.
There is currently no confirmed agreement between Chelsea and Manchester United, but with the transfer deadline fast approaching, Adarabioyo’s future could become one of the window’s most intriguing late developments.
