Chelsea offer Newcastle target Tosin Adarabioyo a contract as the Blues join the race for the defender... but Magpies remain favourites to sign the Fulham star on a free next month

Chelsea have offered a contract to Tosin Adarabioyo but Newcastle United remain hopeful of sealing his signature.

The Fulham defender will become a free agent next month and talks with his representatives have left an agreement close with Newcastle.

As Mail Sport revealed, a number of clubs, including Manchester United, have posted interest in the 26-year old and Chelsea had also made contact but now they have followed that up with an offer.

Adarabioyo made 22 appearances for the Cottagers this season, scoring twice, and has spent the last four seasons with the West London club. 

Chelsea, who also admire Newcastle target goalkeeper James Trafford of Burnley, want to increase their homegrown quota and Adarabioyo also represents excellent value.

There would be greater competition for a first team place at Chelsea though they are looking to sell Trevoh Chalobah for around £25million.

Newcastle are still considered favourites and are looking to push through an agreement but are awaiting Adarabioyo's final decision.