Olympique de Marseille have identified Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo as a potential defensive reinforcement, although no formal negotiations have yet begun between the two clubs.
The French club are understood to hold a strong interest in the 28-year-old as they consider strengthening their back line before the transfer window closes. However, the possibility of a move remains at an early stage, with Marseille yet to make concrete progress in discussions with either Chelsea or the player.
Chelsea’s current preference is reportedly to retain Adarabioyo for the coming season. According to information from Matteo Moretto, manager Xabi Alonso is counting on the English defender of Nigerian origin and sees him as an important member of his squad.
Adarabioyo’s experience is regarded as particularly valuable within a Chelsea team that contains a large number of young players. Alonso appreciates the defender’s profile and would like to have him available throughout the campaign.
The player himself is not believed to be pushing for a departure from Stamford Bridge. His omission from the squad for Chelsea’s most recent match was attributed to the intense competition for places within the team, as well as the rotation choices made by the coaching staff.
That situation has not ended Marseille’s interest, however. The next two weeks could still bring developments if Olympique de Marseille decide to step up their efforts and attempt to persuade both Chelsea and Adarabioyo that a transfer would be the right outcome.
Adarabioyo is under contract with Chelsea until 30 June 2028. His market value is estimated at €16m by Transfermarkt, while his annual salary in London is reported to be €7,508,017 (£6,? no, preserve original currency) or 4,880,211,050 CFA francs.
The defender’s situation is therefore one to monitor as the closing stages of the transfer window approach. Marseille are considering their options, but Chelsea’s wish to keep the player and Adarabioyo’s lack of pressure for a move could make any deal difficult to complete.
Olympique de Marseille will soon begin their French championship campaign against Strasbourg. For that match, betting company 1xBet lists Marseille as favourites, with the club priced at 1.64 to win. A draw is rated at 4.20, while a Strasbourg victory is priced at 4.30.
