12 Manchester United are still very much in the race to sign Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo despite suggestions that Newcastle are just one step away from sealing his signing.
Adarabioyo is understood to be one of the many players Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are looking at to bolster United's defensive department - a need that instantly became more urgent following Raphael Varane's confirmation that he'll depart Old Trafford in the coming days.
United are not the only club chasing Adarabioyo. Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to have him on their radar.
Newcastle especially are considered United's main competitor in the race to land the 26-year-old.
A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that the Red Devils are keen on hijacking the Magpies' deal to add Adarabioyo to their ranks.
It was subsequently relayed that the Englishman is leaning more towards Newcastle than United.
Earlier on Wednesday, Fabrizio Romano relayed that the Tyneside outfit are "almost there" in their bid to secure Adarabioyo's signature.
Newcastle keep advancing to sign both Lloyd Kelly and Tosin Adarabioyo as free agents, almost there. https://t.co/wSgaDOUGqp
- Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 22, 2024
The Italian journalist further stated that Eddie Howe has approved the Fulham man's recruitment and talks keep "advancing well."
However, according to BBC, United are not entirely out and are still keen on swooping in for Adarabioyo.
The newspaper explains, "Manchester United are vying with Newcastle to sign Fulham central defender Tosin Adarabioyo."
"Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is a known admirer of the former Manchester City youth player and the Magpies were thought to be close to completing a deal to sign him."
"However, it is understood United have not ended their interest in the Englishman."
Adarabioyo's main point of attraction lies in the fact that he can be obtained as a free agent. For United - a club that is battling to adhere to the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) - such a move appeals greatly.
It's also rare that a quality player like Adarabioyo becomes available for free.