Benfica reportedly eye Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo
Portuguese giants Benfica have reportedly identified Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo as a potential defensive reinforcement as they continue reshaping their squad ahead of the new season, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
The 28-year-old has featured regularly during Chelsea’s pre-season tour of Australia and Asia, making four appearances in five matches. He completed the full 90 minutes in Sunday’s 3-3 draw against Johor Darul Ta’zim and has accumulated 208 minutes during the tour.
Despite his involvement in pre-season, Adarabioyo is reportedly not regarded as a first-choice defender under new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, with several teammates believed to be ahead of him in the centre-back pecking order.
Chelsea are consequently understood to be willing to consider offers for the Nigerian-born defender should a suitable proposal arrive.
According to Portuguese publication Correio da Manhã, Benfica are considering Adarabioyo as an option to strengthen their defence, with manager Marco Silva reportedly interested in reuniting with the centre-back.
Silva previously worked with Adarabioyo at Fulham, where the defender became an important member of the first team.
Adarabioyo left Fulham as a free agent in 2024 before joining Chelsea, where he has since made 70 appearances over two seasons.
His previous relationship with Silva and familiarity with the Portuguese coach's tactical approach could make him an appealing target for Benfica, particularly following António Silva's departure to Bournemouth.
Benfica are reportedly considering a loan deal with an option to buy rather than an immediate permanent transfer.
Such an arrangement would allow the Portuguese club to assess Adarabioyo during the season before deciding whether to make the move permanent.
Chelsea, however, could favour a permanent sale, especially after acquiring the defender on a free transfer. A permanent move would provide the London club with an immediate transfer fee while also helping with their wider squad-management plans.
For now, Adarabioyo remains a Chelsea player, but Benfica's reported interest could offer the defender an opportunity to reunite with Silva and begin a new chapter in Portuguese football.
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