What the fee means for the summer budget
Benfica have entered the race for Chelsea FC centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo, according to reports from Portuguese outlet A Bola and confirmed by BBC Sport journalist Nizaar Kinsella. The Portuguese giants see the 28-year-old as a target ahead of the summer transfer window, with talks already underway regarding a potential move to the Estádio da Luz.
Where he fits in the current squad
Adarabioyo joined Chelsea FC on a free transfer in 2024 after a spell with Fulham, signing a contract that runs until 2028. Despite featuring 72 times across competitions for the Blues, he struggled to force his way into the starting XI last season, managing just two goals from 29 appearances, both coming in FA Cup ties.
Can he reunite with Marco Silva?
The centre-back could link up with former Fulham boss Marco Silva at Benfica, should the move materialise. The Portuguese manager worked with Adarabioyo during his time at Craven Cottage, and the reunion is understood to be a factor in the interest from the Primeira Liga side.
Chelsea's pre-season campaign so far
Chelsea FC have been busy in pre-season, opening with a 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers before falling 2-1 to Tottenham Hotspur at the same venue in Sydney. The Blues then travelled to Hong Kong where they lost 1-0 to Juventus, before recording a 3-0 victory over AC Milan in Jakarta. A 3-3 draw with Johor Darul Ta'zim followed last week, with the pre-season programme concluding against Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The squad will be without continental football this term after finishing outside the European places last season, but new boss Xabi Alonso looks to have his side peaking at the right time ahead of the August 24 trip to Fulham.
Key stats
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Competitions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024/25 | 29 | 2 | FA Cup, League Cup |
| 2023/24 | 43 | 5 | Premier League, FA Cup |
| 2022/23 | 0 | 0 | - |
Benfica will weigh up the defensive options as they look to strengthen the back line, while Chelsea FC assess their centre-back resources ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
