By Katie Catherall
Manchester United attempted to sign Tosin Adarabioyo after his departure from Fulham, a report has claimed, but failed to prevent the centre-back from moving to Chelsea.
The Blues are yet to confirm Tosin's arrival but the 26-year-old has already passed a medical to become the first signing of the Enzo Maresca era.
However, according to theDaily Mail, Tosin could have ended up at United had the Red Devils been faster with their summer transfer plans.
The Red Devils expressed their interest in the free agent months ago, but faced competition from Newcastle United, who were close to penning a deal before Chelsea swooped in.
It is reported that United made a formal contract offer to Tosin at the weekend but discovered that the defender had already agreed to join Chelsea.
It's expected that Tosin will be announced as a Chelsea player this week after his departure from Fulham was formally confirmed.
At United, uncertainty remains as the club continue their end-of-season review, which will also include a decision on the future of manager Erik ten Hag.
The Old Trafford side have already welcomed staff such as Sir Dave Brailsford and technical director Jason Wilcox, who will work to bring successful players to the club. There are also plans to hire Dan Ashworth as sporting director, although controversy over the timing of United's approach has put the move at risk.
United have revealed the players that have departed the club at the end of the season - with Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane among the highest-profile exits.
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This article was originally published on 90min.com as Man Utd 'fail with late Chelsea transfer hijack'.
