Nigeria: Tosin Adarabioyo edges closer to Super Eagles commitment

Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo is on the verge of pledging his international future to Nigeria, in what would mark a significant addition to the Super Eagles’ defensive ranks after years of speculation over his allegiance.

The 27-year-old was recently seen arriving at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, greeted with enthusiasm by fans aware of the potential implications of his visit.

Sources close to the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) suggest Adarabioyo’s trip is far from casual, with discussions underway aimed at integrating the centre-back into Nigeria’s squad for upcoming fixtures.

Adarabioyo, who left Fulham to join Chelsea this summer, has long been on Nigeria’s radar.

His eligibility to represent both England and Nigeria sparked a prolonged tug-of-war between the two nations.

Though capped at various youth levels for England, Adarabioyo has yet to feature for the senior team, leaving the door open for a nationality switch.

Speaking to local media, a source familiar with the negotiations remarked, We have a new Eagle in mind, subject to any last-minute changes. As for his availability in September? No guarantees at the moment. Despite the caution, optimism surrounds his potential involvement in the upcoming international window.

Addressing previous rumours that he had turned down Nigeria’s approaches, Adarabioyo sought to set the record straight in a recent interview.

I never refused Nigeria, he stated firmly. Now I’m at Chelsea for my first year… I think it’s time to make a decision. His remarks strongly indicate a readiness to commit to the Super Eagles after years of uncertainty.

Born in Manchester to Nigerian parents, Adarabioyo’s towering presence and ball-playing abilities have been highly regarded throughout his career.

A move to Chelsea signals his upward trajectory, and his addition would inject both experience and composure into a Nigerian defence preparing for a demanding World Cup qualification campaign.

With the Super Eagles facing pivotal matches in the coming months, securing a player of Adarabioyo’s calibre aligns with the NFF’s broader strategy of attracting dual-national talents competing at Europe’s highest level.

His inclusion would complement the federation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the squad with players who combine international experience with a deep-rooted connection to Nigeria.

While an official confirmation remains pending, the signals from Adarabioyo and his camp suggest a long-awaited debut in green and white may finally be on the horizon.

For Nigeria, it is a timely reinforcement that could prove invaluable in their quest to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup.