Chelsea confirm Tosin Adarabioyo as first signing of Enzo Maresca era

Tosin Adarabioyo has officially become Chelsea’s first signing of the Enzo Maresca era, completing a four-year deal to join the Blues from Fulham.

Manchester United and Newcastle had shown interest in Adarabioyo, but the 26-year-old wanted to remain in London on leaving Fulham.

The former Manchester City academy star will slot into Chelsea’s squad after Thiago Silva’s departure for Fluminense.

Chelsea rate Adarabioyo’s ball-playing ability and his aerial prowess as two key assets as the Blues look to take their squad forward under new head coach Maresca.

Adarabioyo made more than 100 appearances across four years at Fulham, proving crucial to the Whites as Marco Silva’s side cemented their Premier League status.

Now the Manchester-raised centre-back will look to seize his chance to establish himself as a force at a traditional Premier League power in Chelsea.

The England youth international’s arrival only points further towards the Stamford Bridge exit door for Trevoh Chalobah, who Chelsea are prepared to sell for around £25million this summer.

Fulham are keen on Chalobah and could make a move for the accomplished 24-year-old but may not want to meet Chelsea’s valuation.

Adarabioyo had posted a goodbye message to Fulham on Thursday night in preparation for his Chelsea transfer, having completed his Blues medical earlier this week.

“As a new chapter awaits, I’d just like to thank everyone at Fulham Football Club for the last four years,” he posted on social media.

“Together with the manager, staff, my teammates and supporters, we made some great memories that I’ll always hold fondly. I wish you all the best in the future.”