Chelsea Football Club has officially confirmed the signing of centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham on a free transfer.
The 26-year-old defender has agreed to a four-year contract, starting from July 1, 2024, and becomes the first signing under new manager Enzo Maresca, who recently took charge at Stamford Bridge.
Adarabioyo expressed his delight at joining the Blues. He said, “Chelsea is a huge club and this is a full-circle moment for me.
“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, also shared their enthusiasm about the signing, saying, “We are delighted to bring Tosin to Chelsea. 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.”
Born in London but raised in Manchester, Adarabioyo began his career with Manchester City at the age of five and progressed through the club’s youth ranks. He made his professional debut at Stamford Bridge in February 2016 and went on to make seven more first-team appearances for City.
After loan spells with West Bromwich Albion and Blackburn Rovers in the Championship, Adarabioyo joined Fulham permanently in October 2020.
He quickly established himself as a regular starter in the Premier League, making 33 appearances in his first season with the Cottagers. Adarabioyo played a crucial role in Fulham’s promotion back to the top flight and has since made 45 Premier League appearances over the past two seasons, helping the club finish tenth and 13th, respectively.
Adarabioyo’s arrival at Chelsea on a free transfer is expected to bolster their defensive options as they look to challenge for domestic and European titles under Merasca’s leadership in the upcoming 2024/25 season.
