Chelsea 'make contract offer' to Premier League free agent

Chelsea have offered a contract to Fulham centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo as he approaches the end of his current deal, a report has revealed.

Tosin, 26, will leave Fulham this summer after four years and has already been the subject of serious interest from Newcastle United, who moved quick in the hope of avoiding competition from other Premier League sides.

However, Sky Sports News state that Chelsea have now offered Tosin a contract as they seek to rejuvenate their defensive line following Thiago Silva's departure.

Tosin is yet to make a decision on his future and remains in talks with Newcastle, who are also chasing a move for another impending free agent, Lloyd Kelly of Bournemouth.

During his four years with Fulham, Tosin racked up 132 appearances in all competitions, including 78 in the Premier League, establishing himself as a reliable option in England's top flight.

Chelsea are known to want at least one new centre-back this summer. Silva has departed after four years at Stamford Bridge and could be followed out the exit door by Trevoh Chalobah, who remains up for sale in the eyes of those in charge.

Reports suggest Chalobah, who played a crucial role in Chelsea's late-season turnaround and still has four years and a 12-month option left on his contract, is valued at just £25m.

Sporting CP's Ousmane Diomande is a known target but comes with a release clause of €80m (£68m), which could prove too expensive in a summer which also includes plans for a new goalkeeper and striker.

Tosin came through the Manchester City academy but left the club in the same summer as incoming Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca took charge of City's Under-23 setup.

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