Manchester United dealt transfer blow as Raphael Varane replacement 'agrees' Chelsea move

Chelsea are reportedly closing in on the signing of Tosin Adarabioyo amid links to Manchester United.

The Blues are set to make the 26-year-old their first summer signing under incoming boss Enzo Maresca. Adarabioyo, who spent four seasons at Fulham, will leave Craven Cottage at the end of this month after opting against extending his contract.

United had been credited with an interest in the defender after Raphael Varane's exit was confirmed. Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur were also believed to be eyeing a deal.

It appears that he will be on his way to Stamford Bridge instead. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Chelsea have become the clear favourites for his signature and negotiations for a deal are said to be at the final stages.

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This comes after the exit of Thiago Silva following the expiration of his contract. The Brazilian, who spent four years at Stamford Bridge, played his final game for Chelsea against Bournemouth on the last day of the season.

As for United, they are now left with the task of finding another player to replace Varane. Boss Erik ten Hag highlighted the importance to sign a defender, midfielder and striker this summer.

Speaking to VI, he said: "We need to sign an extra striker in the summer. And if we can sign another central midfielder and a replacement for Varane, things will look good again.

"If the team remains fit we can try and aim for top four again."

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