Report: Manchester United join transfer race for ex-Manchester City defender

According to a report from HITC, Manchester United have entered the race for Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo ahead of the summer transfer window.

Tosin Adarabioyo, 26, has been in fantastic form for Fulham since returning from injury in November, but he is out of contract in June and his future remains uncertain. The Nigerian international continues to focus on his football until the end of the season, which has given the Cottagers a window to tie him down to a new deal.

The 26-year-old centre-back is keen to take advantage of his looming free-agency status and leave Fulham for nothing at the end of the season, HITC reports. The opportunity to secure Tosin’s signature on a free transfer has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, who are planning to overhaul their defensive unit after a poor campaign.

With Raphael Varane coming to the end of his contract, and the futures of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans still uncertain, the Red Devils should welcome the idea of signing a couple of centre-backs, especially since the trio are in their 30s and either struggling with injuries or form. In addition, Lisandro Martinez has had two separate injuries this season while Victor Lindelof could be moved on.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co ideally want two central defenders, with Tosin recently joining the list of summer targets, however, Man United are set to face competition for the Fulham star, with Arsenal, Everton, Liverpool, Tottenham, Newcastle United and West Ham also eyeing up a potential move.

Red Devil Armada’s verdict:

At 26, Tosin Adarabioyo appears to be at the top of his game and has been a mainstay at the back for Marco Silva’s side since returning from injury in November. Formerly of Manchester City, the Nigerian has developed into a reliable defender since arriving at Fulham in 2020 and is now ready to take the next big step in his career.

Signing a fast, agile and physically intimidating defender with decent top-flight experience on a free transfer in Tosin would represent an excellent piece of business for Man United. Given the club’s need to bring in upgrades on Varane, Maguire and Evans, we must convince Tosin to make Old Trafford his next destination.