Manchester United are trying to hijack Newcastle’s move for out of contract Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo, talkSPORT understands.
The Magpies stepped up contract talks with Tosin over the weekend and are hopeful of making him their first summer signing.
But the deal is not yet done and United’s recently-appointed director Jason Wilcox, who helped bring Tosin through the youth ranks at Manchester City, is keen to take him to Old Trafford.
United are aiming to sign two centre-backs this summer after confirming the departure of Raphael Varane.
Boss Erik ten Hag has seen his central defence decimated with injuries this season with Varane, Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez all sidelined.
The Dutchman was forced to pair Brazilian midfielder Casemiro alongside Jonny Evans in defence for Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.
United’s interest in Adarabioyo., who joined Fulham in 2020 from City, could see the Red Devils boost their backline options next season with question marks remaining over the futures of Evans and Maguire.
Similarly, Newcastle had targeted Adarabioyo to bolster their back four after a succession of injuries.
Adarabioyo was reportedly keen on a switch to St James’ Park with Howe proving to be the key factor in the defender’s interest in a move to the North East.
The 26-year-old has made 20 Premier League appearances for Fulham this season, scoring twice.
He has become an important figure for Marco Silva’s side after returning from a groin injury but has missed the Cottagers last three matches.
Adarabioyo began his career at Manchester City but his pathway to first-team football was largely blocked due to the presence of Vincent Kompany, Aymeric Laporte, Nicolas Otamendi, and John Stones.
The Manchester-born star then had loan spells at West Brom and Blackburn followed before signing a permanent deal with Fulham in 2020.
He has also played for England’s youth levels from Under-16s to the Under-19s.
News Summary:
- Man United try to hijack Newcastle move for out-of-contract Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo
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