Manchester United late transfer hijack claim after Newcastle United U-turn and medical

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Newcastle United and Manchester United have lost out to Chelsea in their bid to sign Tosin Adarabioyo.

Manchester United reportedly made a late attempt to sign Tosin Adarabioyo under the noses of Chelsea.

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As early as last week, Newcastle United were favourites to sign the out-of-contract defender only for Chelsea to swoop in and offer a bigger wage package.

After accepting the Blues’ terms, Adarabioyo arrived back in West London from his holiday on Tuesday to undergo his medical. Fulham announced Adarabioyo’s release yesterday with his move set to be made official on July 1.

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The Daily Mail claims Man United followed up their initial interest with a concrete proposal over the weekend but by that point, the 26-year-old had already agreed to join Chelsea.

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As well as the financial side, sources in London say the appointment of Enzo Maresca was key to Adarabioyo’s decision. The pair know how each other work during their respective times at Manchester City.

ESPN reported earlier this week that Man United’s transfer plans have hit a major speed bump as they expected Dan Ashworth to be installed as sporting director ahead of the summer transfer window.

Newcastle remain deadlocked with the Red Devils over a compensation package. As it stands, Ashworth remains on gardening leave after signalling his desire to leave St James’ Park in February. The saga is set to be decided by arbitration.

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Old Trafford insiders have accepted their recruitment will not be at its full potential without the sporting director, regarded as one of the best in the business.

Meanwhile, the Magpies are pushing ahead with transfer plans with head of recruitment Steve Nickson playing a lead role behind the scenes. Newcastle too are continuing their search for Ashworth’s replacement after Dougie Freedman turned down the role in favour of staying at Crystal Palace.

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