Marseille step up Tosin move as Chelsea open door to exit
Tosin Adarabioyo has emerged as a transfer target for Marseille, with Chelsea facing another decision over their crowded centre-back department before the window closes.
Marseille have shown the strongest interest in the 28-year-old, while Benfica are also considering a move for the Chelsea defender, according to The Times.
Chelsea are currently content to keep Tosin, but their position could change as Xabi Alonso continues reducing the size of his defensive group.
🚨 Chelsea are working hard on outgoings.
Tosin has received interest from multiple clubs. Mamadou Sarr also has loan interest from clubs in England and Europe. Axel Disasi, who is valued at £25m, is also expected to leave.
(@TheAthleticFC) #CFC pic.twitter.com/e1TcXOtv9u
— Chelsea Dodgers (@TheBlueDodger) August 13, 2026
Marseille step up Tosin Adarabioyo interest
Tosin joined Chelsea on a free transfer from Fulham in 2024 and remains under contract until 2028.
His experience has made him a useful member of a relatively young squad, but competition at centre-back has increased considerably this summer.
Chelsea added Maxence Lacroix after another strong Premier League season, leaving Alonso with a large number of senior defenders competing for limited places.
ReadChelsea highlighted the problem after the Lacroix move, with departures expected before the end of the transfer window.
The situation has moved again following Benoit Badiashile’s agreement to join Napoli.
The Times reports that Chelsea had as many as 10 senior centre-backs following Lacroix’s arrival, with Alonso ultimately wanting a group closer to four or five. Axel Disasi, Mamadou Sarr and Aaron Anselmino are among the other defenders whose futures remain uncertain.
Tosin therefore sits in an interesting position.
Chelsea are not actively pushing him towards the exit, and Alonso has previously regarded the former Manchester City defender as an experienced voice within his squad.
ReadChelsea reported earlier this summer that Alonso viewed Tosin as part of Chelsea’s leadership group.
However, further departures may force Chelsea to reassess which defenders they want to retain.
Marseille’s interest now gives the Blues another potential option if that decision changes before the window closes.
dave.sport is in beta
We are building a new home for independent sports coverage. dave.sport is currently in beta, with new features and publisher tools rolling out as we test what fans need most.
Explore the beta
Frank Lampard wants Josh Acheampong as Chelsea stance shifts
Frank Lampard wants Josh Acheampong as Chelsea stance shifts
Enzo Fernandez staying gives Chelsea something £120m could not buy
Enzo Fernandez staying gives Chelsea something £120m could not buy