Tosin Adarabioyo expected to leave Chelsea amid transfer uncertainty, says Fabrizio Romano

Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo is expected to leave the club during the summer transfer window, according to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, with the defender reportedly being monitored by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

The 28-year-old joined Chelsea on a free transfer from Fulham in the summer of 2024, but he has not been able to establish himself as a regular starter at Stamford Bridge. Although he has shown glimpses of his ability, opportunities have remained limited.

Adarabioyo has made 70 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions since completing his move, scoring seven goals and providing one assist. However, the competition for places in the club’s defence has contributed to uncertainty over his future.

Reports have linked the centre-back with a potential move to Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg, who compete in Ligue 1. A transfer could give Adarabioyo the regular first-team football he is seeking after struggling to secure a consistent place in the Chelsea side.

Romano said Chelsea were preparing for a particularly active period in August, with the club expected to complete several departures.

“For Chelsea, it is going to be a busy August,” Romano said. “Yes, they said Welbeck, Henderson, and all the others but now Chelsea are going to complete some outgoings.”

He then named Adarabioyo among the players expected to leave, while also providing an update on the future of fellow defender Trevoh Chalobah.

“Trevoh Chalobah is going to Como for 30 million euros plus six in add-ons and a sell-on clause. (Benoit) Badiashile is leaving, I think Tosin Adarabioyo is also leaving,” he stated.

The comments add to the speculation surrounding Adarabioyo, whose limited playing time has placed his position at Chelsea under scrutiny. Despite his experience and goalscoring contribution from defence, he may now be seeking a fresh opportunity elsewhere.

Adarabioyo is also eligible to represent the Super Eagles and could come under consideration by Chelle as Nigeria assess their options. Securing regular club football could strengthen his prospects of reviving his career and pushing for greater international involvement.

Chelsea’s expected defensive departures could make the coming weeks significant for the player, although no completed move for Adarabioyo has been confirmed. For now, Strasbourg remains one of the clubs reportedly associated with his future as he considers the next stage of his career.

The defender’s potential exit would form part of a wider period of change at Chelsea, with Chalobah and Badiashile also mentioned in connection with departures. Romano’s update suggests Adarabioyo could be among the key players to leave Stamford Bridge before the transfer window closes.