Benfica register interest in Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo | OneFootball

Portuguese giants Benfica have registered their interest in signing Chelsea centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo, according to Nizaar Kinsella.

The move would pave the way for a reunion with Benfica head coach Marco Silva, who previously managed Adarabioyo during a productive three-year spell at Fulham.

Under Silva at Craven Cottage, the 28-year-old established himself as a reliable, ball-playing Premier League defender, making nearly 100 appearances before joining Chelsea on a free transfer in summer 2024.

Having seen Adarabioyo excel in his tactical system, Silva sees his former centre-back as an ideal replacement for Antonio Silva, who recently joined Bournemouth.

Chelsea have received initial interest from Benfica regarding Adarabioyo’s availability. With less than two years on his current contract, decision-makers in West London are carefully evaluating the situation.

As Adarabioyo arrived on a free transfer, any sale would represent pure profit on the club’s books, a dynamic that appeals to BlueCo as they seek to comply with Premier League and UEFA sustainability regulations.

However, Benfica are not the only club keen on a move for Tosin, with at least one rival Premier League club also interested, creating potential competition for his signature late in the window.

Although Adarabioyo featured regularly in pre-season, fierce competition in Chelsea’s defence has left his long-term prospects uncertain.

A move to Estadio da Luz would appeal to Adarabioyo, offering regular football and European competition under a manager who fully trusts his abilities.

Chelsea would ideally like their first-team squad settled before the opening game against Fulham on August 24, meaning Benfica may need to move quickly to complete a deal.

With their pre-season tour of Australia and Asia now complete, the Blues are working to trim their squad, with several departures lined up for youth prospects and fringe first-team options.