Man United make late hijack attempt for Chelsea-bound Tosin Adarabioyo – but fail after leaving it too late amid the post-season review which could lead to Erik ten Hag’s sacking

Manchester United made a late attempt to sign Tosin Adarabioyo but talks over a move to Chelsea had already progressed too far.

The 26-year-old defender is expected to be confirmed as the first signing of the Enzo Maresca era in the next 48 hours.

He underwent medical examinations on Tuesday and agreed to his deal with Chelsea pending the official expiry of his contract with Fulham.

United had already expressed an interest in the free agent center months ago, but it was Newcastle United who first put themselves forward for his signature and came close to an agreement.

Chelsea then made a bid last month before returning last weekend with an improved contract after choosing Maresca as their new manager.

Maresca has previously worked with Adarabioyo at Manchester City and was a key figure behind the centre-back’s decision to join Chelsea, coupled with the added appeal of European football.

United returned last weekend with a concrete proposal, but Adarabioyo had already agreed to join Maresca.

The Old Trafford club are in the middle of an end-of-season review and are still waiting to finalize part of their recruitment team, but have identified certain targets and will look to gain value in the market.

They want two central defenders, a midfielder and a striker, but they also need to strengthen themselves as a full-back.

As a free agent with Premier League experience, Adarabioyo was identified as an interesting player, but they have other options.

Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite are among the other defenders on their list.