Man United try to hijack Newcastle move for out-of-contract Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo
Manchester United are attempting to hijack Newcastle's move for out-of-contract Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo, talkSPORT understands.
The Magpies stepped up contract talks with Tosin over the weekend and are hoping to make him their first summer signing.
But the deal is not yet done and recently appointed United manager Jason Wilcox, who helped guide Tosin through the youth ranks at city of manchesterHe really wants to take him to Old Trafford.
United intend to sign two centre-backs this summer after confirming the Departure of Raphaël Varane.
Boss Erik ten Hag has seen his central defense decimated by injuries this season with Varane, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martínez out.
The Dutchman was forced to pair up with the Brazilian midfielder casemiro alongside Jonny Evans in defense during Sunday's 1-0 loss to Arsenal.
United's interest in Adarabioyo, who joined Fulham in 2020 from City, could see the Red Devils increase their options in the defensive line next season, with questions over the futures of Evans and Maguire.
Similarly, Newcastle had targeted Adarabioyo to bolster their back four after a succession of injuries.
Adarabioyo was reportedly interested in a move to St James' Park and Howe proved to be the key factor in the defender's interest in moving to the North East.
The 26-year-old has made 20 appearances in the Premier League during Fulham this season, scoring twice.
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He has become an important figure for Marco Silva's side after returning from a groin injury, but has missed the Cottagers' last three games.
Adarabioyo began his career at Manchester City, but his path to first-team football was largely blocked due to the presence of Vincent Kompany, Aymeric Laporte, Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones.
The Manchester-born star then had loan spells at West Brom and Blackburn before signing a permanent deal with Fulham in 2020.
He has also played for England's youth teams, from Under-16s to Under-19s.
