Chelsea transfer news has taken another turn, with Benfica entering the race for a senior defender who could leave Stamford Bridge before the window closes.
Chelsea transfer news: Benfica join Marseille in race
According to Sky Sports, Benfica have joined Marseille in competing for Tosin Adarabioyo, creating a two-club battle for the 28-year-old centre-back. The report adds another twist to Chelsea’s efforts to reduce their defensive numbers after adding Maxence Lacroix.
Adarabioyo joined Chelsea from Fulham on a free transfer in 2024, signing a four-year contract after establishing himself as a reliable Premier League defender.
His 2025/26 campaign brought regular involvement without giving him a locked starting role. Chelsea’s official figures show 16 Premier League appearances, including eight starts, with 789 minutes played. He made 29 appearances across all competitions and scored twice in the FA Cup.
Chelsea transfer news points to a permanent sale
For Chelsea, a permanent transfer makes far more sense than another loan. The club signed Adarabioyo without paying a fee, so a sizeable sale would give the hierarchy a useful financial return while cutting another senior salary from the squad.
That matters because Chelsea already have Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Axel Disasi and other defensive options competing for places, while Lacroix has added another major centre-back option. Chelsea have meanwhile continued trimming the defensive group, with Benoit Badiashile moving towards Napoli on loan in the latest squad reshuffle.
Benfica’s interest carries an extra edge because Marco Silva knows Adarabioyo from their Fulham days. That relationship could help Benfica convince the defender that Portugal offers a stronger route to regular football, while Marseille can offer a different challenge.
Chelsea transfer news: £15m-£20m sale makes sense
Chelsea should push for a permanent fee of around £15m to £20m rather than accept another temporary arrangement. Adarabioyo remains physically imposing at 1.97m, brings Premier League experience and can contribute in both defensive duels and set-piece situations.
At 28, Chelsea won’t gain much from parking him elsewhere for another season. A permanent deal would free squad space, reduce salary commitments and give Adarabioyo a clearer role.
Benfica may have the strongest hand because Silva already knows his qualities, yet Marseille should not be discounted. Chelsea should invite both clubs to compete, set a firm valuation and take the best permanent offer.
Read: £120m Chelsea price sparks fresh Atlético twist at 25
That would make the most sense for Chelsea’s sporting plans and their finances, with Chelsea transfer news now pointing firmly towards a late decision on the defender.
