Tosin Adarabioyo now close to becoming first Newcastle United summer signing – Report | OneFootball

Back in June 2022, media reports claimed that Eddie Howe was set to sign Tosin Adarabioyo.

The then 24 year old central defender had helped Fulham to promotion and they had the third best defensive record in the second tier, conceding 43 goals in 46 games. Tosin Adarabioyo was available to start 43 of the 46 matches and started 41 of those 43, in the two games when he stayed on the subs bench, Fulham conceded four goals both times – the only two times they did that season.

However, in July 2022 it was instead Sven Botman who arrived at St James’ Park in a £35m deal from Lille.

After constant links these past months and ongoing talks with the player and his representatives, in this update it is now reported that the 6ft 5in Tosin Adarabioyo could finally be signing for Newcastle United.

The Mail update – 12 May 2024:

‘Newcastle are now clear favourites to land free agent Tosin Adarabioyo this summer.

Mail Sport understands the Fulham defender values the ambition of the club and has been impressed by the project presented to him.

Talks have taken place over the past week and, while there remains interest from elsewhere, sources have indicated that Newcastle is now his most likely destination with a deal close.

Adarabioyo, 26, is said to see the value in working with a coach like Eddie Howe, who has brought about vast improvement in almost every player under his care on Tyneside.

He would also arrive as a likely starter ahead of next season, given the long-term knee injuries of centre-backs Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles.’

Tosin Adarabioyo signed a three year deal at Fulham when moving from Manchester City in 2020 and then last summer, Fulham triggered the option of another season.

However, the defender has shown no interest in signing a new deal and is set to be a free agent this summer, Fulham seemingly accepting the situation and looking to the future now.

Having started the previous nine games, including the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United, the centre-back has been totally left out of the matchday squad for the last three Premier League games, including the 4-0 home thrashing Man City handed out.

The report states that Newcastle United are also in ongoing talks with Lloyd Kelly and his representatives, Eddie Howe hoping to now sign the defender for a second time.

This latest update from The Mail also reports that Newcastle United remain in talks to bring in central defender Lloyd Kelly, another who will be a free agent this summer. Those talks have been ongoing since February and Eddie Howe looking set to also add this defender who he originally bought when he was at Bournemouth, a £13m purchase from Bristol City back in summer 2019.

Tosin Adarabioyo is right footed and Lloyd Kelly left footed, whilst aged 26 and 25 respectively, they fit in with the profile of players Eddie Howe signs, with their best years ahead of them.

With PSR pressures and no doubts other additional targets for other positions that Eddie Howe will want to pursue for next season, it would be a massive boost to bring in two Premier League experienced but still young centre-backs without having to pay any transfer fees.

The Mail saying that Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise and Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale are also amongst Newcastle United’s list of summer targets.

The emphasis once again from Eddie Howe and Newcastle United on those who have already shown they can play at Premier League level.