Newcastle United were hoping to have completed a deal for Tosin Adarabioyo by now.
The 26-year-old is due to become a free agent this summer, with his Fulham contract set to expire. He is leaving Craven Cottage, and could be on his way to Newcastle United.
While a move did not seem likely to begin with, the Magpies have pushed their way to the front of the queue. Eddie Howe is very keen to add him to his squad, as well as bring in Lloyd Kelly.
But while that transfer appears to be close, finalising the Tosin deal is proving to be a bit more difficult.
Newcastle United did want a deal done in time before the FA Cup final amid interest from Manchester United. That did not happen, and now Chelsea have entered the conversation with an offer of their own.
The Magpies suddenly face stiff competition to sign the centre-back, whose future remains uncertain.
Where Newcastle United’s deal to sign Tosin Adarabioyo is at
Now an update has emerged from Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth, who has shared details on what he has heard about Newcastle’s attempt to bring Tosin to St James’ Park.
Sheth has been discussing Newcastle’s interest in Tosin on the latest episode of the Transfer Talk podcast.
“Tosin’s contract at Fulham is coming to an end,” he said.
“The information that I have got is that there have been extensive talks between Newcastle, Tosin and his representatives.
“Not a done deal yet. There’s a lot of that contract that has been agreed. Just a few minor details that need ironing out on that one.”
Newcastle need to get this transfer over the line soon
It is encouraging to hear that most of the terms of the deal have been agreed between Newcastle and Tosin. With just a few minor details to sort out, we could see this transfer chase end very soon.
Of course, Tosin is in a position of power. He holds all the cards, as he prepares to become a free agent. He has got a plethora of Premier League clubs chasing his signature, one of which is Newcastle.
And it is the move to Tyneside that will hopefully be the most appealing. While Chelsea can offer more money, they cannot give him more stability. It is unclear whether or not he will play regularly at Stamford Bridge, while there are no guarantees that there won’t be another change of manager in a few months.
In contrast, Howe wants Tosin and appreciates his qualities. There will be a clear plan for him to eventually be Sven Botman’s long-term centre-back partner at St James’ Park.
But Newcastle will hope this deal reaches a conclusion soon. They need to sign two centre-backs this summer, and getting both on free transfers would massively help them out with regards to their budget.
If Tosin were to sign for someone else, the Magpies would need to find another centre-back. They would likely command a decent fee, which would mean Newcastle had less money to spend on other positions such as right wing.
That is why Toon officials will hope to iron out these remaining details as soon as possible.
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