Manchester United receive major Tosin Adarabioyo transfer update after “hijack” attempt

Manchester United received a major update on centre-back target Tosin Adarabioyo following reports that they were planning to hijack Newcastle’s deal for the defender.

Adarabioyo, 26, is available on a free transfer in the summer, with his Fulham contract running out at the end of the season.

With United in need of at least two defenders and their priority target Jarrad Branthwaite being priced at over £60 million by Everton, a move for the former Manchester City academy player seemed to be a smart one.

However, in recent weeks it has been reported how Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side have taken pole position in negotiations for the defender, offering him game-time guarantees and a £100,000-a-week contract.

Despite this, the latest developments stated that United were attempting to hijack the deal, with Jason Wilcox keen to bring his former youth player to Old Trafford.

While a move for Adarabioyo seems viable, there seems to be one major hurdle that will impact negotiations.

Tosin update provided

According to HITC, while the Manchester-born centre-back is keen on a move to United, the major issue – and one that means the 26-year-old can’t yet commit to the club – is that they are unable to confirm to him who his potential boss would be next season.

Erik ten Hag’s future is in the balance after a disappointing second season at the club and he could be replaced for next season, but no decision has been communicated by INEOS. Newcastle, meanwhile, are committed to Howe for next season.

This has led to United’s move for Adarabioyo stalling. Wilcox has been headed up talks with Adarabioyo but has been unable to give any guarantees on his role within the team due to the fact they don’t know about the head coach to this point.

The report concluded that this leaves Newcastle in pole position for the 26-year-old.