Chelsea look 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 managerless.

The Blues are currently without a first-team gaffer following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure earlier this month.

REXFulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo is on the wishlist of several Prem clubs[/caption]

GETTYChelsea have reportedly stolen a march in the race for the 26-year-old[/caption]

But, according to reports, that hasn’t stopped them from firing a contract offer the way of Fulham‘s Tosin Adarabioyo.

Sky Sports claim the West Londoners have “confirmed” to them that they have offered the defender at Stamford Bridge deal.

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 as several other clubs are keen on acquiring his services.

SunSport understands Adarabioyo is high up Newcastle’s summer transfer wishlist.

Magpies boss Eddie Howe is keen on signing the centre-back as a replacement for the crocked Sven Botman.

Manchester United are also said to hold an interest in signing the soon-to-be free agent.

Fulham have been resigned to losing Adarabioyo since he snubbed 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 have been speaking to him, I have a really close relationship like with all the players and everything is clear between myself and him, like all the other players.

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

“If Tosin is going to be on the pitch he’s going to be on the pitch, he’s going to be in the squad if I’m going decide for him to be in the squad. Nothing has changed from last week.

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

“Of course, that’s a decision from the player.

“But apart from that Tosin is ready to play or to be in the squad if I decide for him to be there.”