Newcastle United transfer news: Magpies submit 'huge' offer to rival Chelsea interest for 26-year-old star

Newcastle United’s recruitment team are doing everything possible to try and land top summer transfer target Tosin Adarabioyo despite competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea.

Earlier today, it became clear that the Blues had entered the race to sign the 26-year-old Fulham star ahead of his contract expiring at Craven Cottage at the end of June.

Adarabioyo has been a major part of the Fulham backline for four seasons, but has already made it clear that he intends to leave Marco Silva’s side in the summer.

Newcastle are keen to make the defender their first signing as they look to quickly fill up a weakness in their squad which has been caused by long-term injuries to both Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles who will both not return until at least half way through the 2024/25 campaign.

A deal to sign Adarabioyo would present shrewd business in terms of FFP, which is exactly why big-spending Chelsea are looking to sign the defender after the departure of veteran international Thiago Silva.

European football could allow Chelsea to entice the player to Stamford Bridge, though it is reported by Football Insider that Newcastle have offered the player a ‘compelling contract’ and a much greater chance of first team football. Newcastle have offered the English centre-back a “huge” wage increase and explained their plan to develop him into being a key part of Eddie Howe’s side.

The report from Football Insider adds that Newcastle officials are still optimistic that the deal for the former Manchester City centre back gets done this summer, along with fellow target and soon to be out of contract star Lloyd Kelly who has confirmed his intention to leave Bournemouth in a deal which could see him reunite with Howe.

Addressing his departure from Bournemouth, Kelly said earlier this month: “To everyone who I've worked with, players, coaches, staff, the board, physios and everyone who makes the club operate. “I appreciate the love and support that you've given me through it all and the relationships formed I'll always be grateful for.

“To the fans, there has been a lot of speculation around my future at the club and I've left it in the background because I still had a job to do.

“One of the values I follow is to finish what you started, so I did that to the level l know it should be. I appreciate the support I had over the years and I wish everyone at AFC Bournemouth the best in the future.”

The pair would compete with Fabian Schar and Dan Burn for a starting spot at centre back if signed, with Lascelles and Botman potentially returning to action in January to enhance the competition for places. Lascelles is out of contract at the end of next season, so the duo would provide added security for the centre-back positions if next season proves to be Lascelles’ final one at St James’ Park.

Paul Dummett is expected to leave the St James’ Park club when his contract expires in the summer, after 14 years of first team experience and 196 league appearances.