Tosin Adarabioyo’s future at Chelsea has come under renewed scrutiny after the defender was left out of the squad for the club’s final pre-season fixture against Real Sociedad, with reports claiming new head coach Xabi Alonso has given the green light for him to leave.
Adarabioyo was absent as Chelsea ended their preparations for the 2026-27 campaign with a 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. João Pedro scored twice, while Morgan Rogers also found the net on his Chelsea debut.
The 28-year-old’s omission has added to growing uncertainty over his position within Alonso’s plans, particularly as Chelsea attempt to reduce an oversized defensive group before the transfer window closes.
Recent reports have claimed that Adarabioyo has been made available for transfer, with Alonso keen to reduce the number of senior centre-backs at his disposal. Chelsea are understood to have as many as 10 senior options in central defence following the arrival of Maxence Lacroix, with the club looking to reduce that number significantly.
According to reports, Benfica and Marseille are among the clubs monitoring Adarabioyo’s situation. Benfica have previously been linked with the former Fulham defender as they consider defensive reinforcements, while Marseille have reportedly shown strong interest in recent days.
One report has gone further, claiming Adarabioyo is not part of Alonso’s plans and is ready to leave Stamford Bridge. The defender has reportedly been offered to clubs in Italy, although his salary is said to have complicated potential moves.
The situation reflects the difficult selection decisions facing Alonso after CHELSEA’s busy summer recruitment. The arrival of Lacroix has increased competition alongside established defenders, while other centre-backs are also believed to be available for transfer.
Adarabioyo joined Chelsea as a free agent from Fulham in 2024 and has since established himself as a useful squad option, particularly because of his physical presence and experience in the Premier League.
However, his absence against Real Sociedad suggests his position could be vulnerable as Alonso finalises his squad for the new season. CHELSEA are expected to continue working on departures in the closing weeks of the transfer window, with defensive exits among the club’s priorities.
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