Marseille weigh move for Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo

Olympique de Marseille are showing strong interest in Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo, although no formal negotiations have yet begun between the clubs.

The French side are considering strengthening their defence before the transfer window closes and have placed the 28-year-old on their list of potential targets. However, Marseille have not yet opened concrete discussions with Chelsea over a possible deal.

The current expectation at Stamford Bridge is that Adarabioyo will remain with the club. Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is understood to be counting on the England international of Nigerian heritage for the coming season, according to information from Matteo Moretto.

Adarabioyo’s experience is regarded as particularly valuable within a Chelsea squad that contains a number of young players. Alonso is said to appreciate the defender’s qualities and would like to retain the option of relying on him throughout the campaign.

The player himself is not believed to be pushing for an exit. His omission from the squad for Chelsea’s most recent match was reportedly explained by the intense competition for places in the London club’s squad, as well as the rotation employed by the coaching staff.

That has not ended speculation over his future, however. The situation could develop during the next two weeks, particularly if Marseille decide to step up their efforts to persuade both Chelsea and Adarabioyo to agree to a transfer.

Adarabioyo is under contract at Chelsea until 30 June 2028. His market value is estimated at 16m euros by Transfermarkt, while his annual salary in London is reported to be 7,508,017 euros, equivalent to 4,880,211,050 CFA francs.

Marseille are preparing to begin their French league campaign against Strasbourg. The match will be the club’s opening fixture of the season, with the two sides set to meet as the transfer situation surrounding Adarabioyo continues to be monitored.

According to the betting information included with the original report, 1xBet lists Marseille as favourites at odds of 1.64. A draw is priced at 4.20, while a Strasbourg victory is given odds of 4.30. The report also includes a promotional reference inviting readers to download 1xBet.

Adarabioyo joined Chelsea after establishing himself as a senior central defender in English football. His physical presence and experience have made him a useful option for a squad competing for places, even though the level of competition means he may not be selected for every match.

For now, Marseille’s interest remains at the exploratory stage rather than representing an advanced transfer operation. Chelsea’s preference is reportedly to keep the defender, and Adarabioyo has given no indication that he is seeking to force a move away from the club. Nevertheless, the coming fortnight could prove decisive if Marseille turn their interest into a formal approach.