The anticipated transfer of Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham to AS Monaco has been cancelled, Soccernet.ng reports.
However, despite this setback, AS Monaco remain determined to secure Adarabioyo's services, albeit with a twist – they plan to sign him for free next summer. [via ASMFC]
Tottenham and Monaco had emerged as the top contenders vying for the signature of the Manchester City-trained defender.
Fulham were inclined towards negotiating with Tottenham, who were willing to meet their financial demands. However, the player himself had his sights set on joining Monaco.
After days of negotiations, Fulham had finally opened the door to the departure of the talented defender. This development buoyed AS Monaco's hopes of striking a deal.
However, the crux of the matter remained unchanged – Fulham did not budge from their €15 million valuation of Adarabioyo. This figure proved to be a stumbling block for his move to Ligue 1.
As a result, Adarabioyo will continue to wear Fulham's colors. However, with only one year left on his contract, Les Monegasques are plotting a strategic move. They aim to secure the player's services on a free transfer next summer, capitalising on his contract situation.
For Adarabioyo, staying put at Fulham means that he will now focus on earning a spot in manager Marco Silva's plans. He faces stiff competition, notably from Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey, who recently joined from Ajax, for one of the two coveted center-back positions.
Notably, Fulham have strengthened their midfield by acquiring dynamic Super Eagles playmaker Alex Iwobi just before the transfer deadline.
Iwobi and Bassey could play pivotal roles in influencing Adarabioyo's international allegiance. Although the England-born defender has shown inclinations towards representing Nigeria, he has yet to announce his decision formally.
