Chelsea could generate instant profit as Premier League rivals line-up defender bid
Today at 08:21 AM
Brighton have shown interest in Chelsea's Tosin Adarabioyo, despite the defender only arriving at Stamford Bridge seven months ago.
The 27-year-old was a product of Manchester City's academy but has not long been in the capital, having arrived on a free transfer in the summer from neighbouring Fulham.
Adarabioyo has made 17 appearances for the Blues this season and started in five of their recent league matches following his move two miles up the road from Craven Cottage.
It is now reported Brighton are now exploring an approach for Adarabioyo, a move that could deliver Chelsea a quick return on their minimal investment.
It's unclear whether Chelsea will greenlight the transfer after Brighton initiated contact with them, according to the Daily Mail.
Adarabioyo's performances have been steadily improving, and he recently scored twice in the FA Cup match against Morecambe.
However, Chelsea's defensive situation has grown more complex, with Trevoh Chalobah recalled from his loan spell at Crystal Palace due to injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile.
Chalobah’s return to Chelsea also guarantees him game time for the west London side with Enzo Maresca set to make him a regular part of his team for the second half of the season.
Teenage star Josh Acheampong – whom Adarabioyo replaced off the bench during Chelsea’s clash with Bournemouth – is now also considered part of the first-team at the age of 18.
It comes as Chelsea's pursuit of Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi hangs in the balance.
Crystal Palace are reportedly unwilling to bring in a replacement for Chalobah, complicating negotiations as they won’t want to lose one of their key players.
From a financial perspective, Adarabioyo's potential sale would bring a significant profit for Chelsea.
Fulham originally acquired him from Manchester City for £2 million in 2020, and his development and top-flight experience could now see him command a much higher fee.
Since he arrived on a free transfer, any proceeds from his sale would also positively impact Chelsea's standing under the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR).
There has also been interest from Premier League sides in another Chelsea defender, Renato Veiga, although he is reportedly more keen on a loan spell rather than a permanent move away from the London club.
Speaking to Chelsea's official website recently, Adarabioyo reflected on his adjustment to life at the club.
"It definitely feels like home now," he said. "It's been quite seamless settling in, knowing the manager and a few of the boys. It's been great."
He also touched on the challenges of securing a regular spot in the starting XI amidst such a large squad.
"When you join a top club like Chelsea, there are top players in every position, so you have to fight every single day in training and be patient and bide your time, like I have done so far," he said.
"Competition for places elevates your own game to a new level, that's what it's all about. It's why we have so many good players in every position to push us on.
"We are one group here; we all support each other no matter if you're on the bench or in the starting XI."
