Chelsea turn to HIJACK Man Utd and Newcastle's first transfer target as they 'offer contract' to Premier League star

CHELSEA have reportedly offered a contract to a sought-after free agent – despite being without a manager.

The Blues are currently without a first-team coach following the departure of Mauricio Pochettino earlier this month.

Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo is on the wishlist of several Prem clubsCredit: REX

Chelsea reportedly steal a step in race for 26-year-oldCredit: GETTY

But, according to reports, that didn’t stop them from returning a contract offer. FulhamThis is Tosin Adarabioyo.

Sky Sports claim the west Londoners have “confirmed” they have offered the defender a move to Stamford Bridge.

Adarabioyo, a former Manchester City academy star, is set to become a free agent once his contract at Craven Cottage expires at the end of the month.

Chelsea’s potential signing of the 26-year-old – who could be the first arrival of the Enzo Maresca era – is far from guaranteed, with several other clubs keen to acquire his services.

SunSport understands Adarabioyo is top of Newcastle’s list summer transfer wish list.

Magpies boss Eddie Howe wants to recruit the central defender to replace the lost Sven Botman.

Manchester United are also said to be interested in signing the future free agent.

Fulham have resigned themselves to losing Adarabioyo since rejecting their offer of a bumper new deal.

Manager Marco Silva said earlier this month: “Last weekend my decision was a technical decision.

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“I know all the noise around him and his future Of course.

“Of course I spoke to him, I have a very close relationship with all the players and everything is clear between me and him, like all the other players.

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“And from him to me and my team as well.

“If Tosin has to be on the pitch, he will be on the pitch, he will be in the team if I decide he is in the team. Nothing has changed from last week.

“When it starts to come, the news that he will not be with us following season, I know what he told me, I prefer to keep it between us.

“Of course, it’s a player’s decision.

“But other than that, Tosin is ready to play or be part of the team if I decide for him to be there.”