Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Fulham to offer new contract to Liverpool target

Fulham are looking to tie a key member of their defence down to a new contract in a move that could frustrate Liverpool's summer transfer plans, according to reports from the Evening Standard.

Centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo's current deal with Fulham is set to expire at the end of the current season, prompting interest from various clubs across England and on the continent.

In a bid to fend off interest, the report indicates that Fulham intend to reward the 26-year-old's stellar performances this season with a contract that would elevate him to one of the club's top earners.

Defensive rebuild

Liverpool's reported interest in Adarabioyo comes amid the next phase of the so-called 'Liverpool 2.0' rebuild which will focus on the defensive reinforcements.

Following the departure of Jurgen Klopp this summer, the returning Michael Edwards (as FSG's CEO of Football), alongside Richard Hughes as sporting director, will be looking to bolster the Reds' defensive ranks, especially with the expected departure of Joel Matip at the end of his current contract.

A left-sided centre-back has been a priority for some time, but the opportunity to get a player of proven Premier League standard on a Bosman could be too hard to turn down.

Competition for his signature

However, if Tosin chooses not to renew with the West London club, the Reds will have competition for his signature.

Tottenham's pursuit of Adarabioyo dates back to the summer of 2023, as reported by 90min, when they vied with AS Monaco for his signature.

Despite signing Radu Dragusin from Genoa in the January window, Spurs' head coach Ange Postecoglou recently expressed a desire to further reinforce his side's defensive ranks ahead of the 2024/25 season.

The Standard reports that Serie A giants AC Milan are also closely monitoring the Englishman's situation.

The list of potential suitors could also include Chelsea and Manchester United as both look to fix their leaky defences.

Adarabioyo joined Fulham from Manchester City in 2020. Since then, he has made 126 appearances across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in Fulham's Championship title-winning campaign in 2021/22, earning recognition in the PFA Team of the Year for his contributions.