BREAKING NEWS: Coming live from Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United deals seems to start earlier than expected as INEOS make move to sign one of two “incredible” ace to partner Martinez at Man Utd. According to reports, United are pushing to make a deal for one for the centre-backs as soon as possible. Man Utd make approach to sign “incredible” Martinez partner.
After a challenging year, Manchester United ended their 2023/24 season on a positive note, which might have prompted Sir Jim Ratcliffe to reconsider several decisions.
One key decision involves Erik ten Hag’s future. The Dutch manager remains uncertain whether he will return to Old Trafford after his break.
While ten Hag’s future is unclear, the club is definitely pursuing new signings, particularly a new center-back.
Recent reports indicate that Manchester United are keen on signing Tosin Adarabioyo. Currently at Fulham, Adarabioyo’s contract is set to expire this summer, allowing him to leave on a free transfer. This makes him a valuable target, and United have already approached him. However, Chelsea and Newcastle United are also interested, and the final decision rests with Adarabioyo.
Adarabioyo would be an excellent partner for Lisandro Martinez. Despite missing the start of the season due to groin surgery, he showcased his abilities towards the end of November. In his 20 appearances, 18 of which he started, Adarabioyo helped Fulham secure six clean sheets. Fulham’s total clean sheets for the season were ten, underscoring his influence.
Here are the 23/24 Premier League stats for Adarabioyo and Martinez:
| Stats (per game) | Adarabioyo | Martinez |
|———————–|————|———-|
| Goals | 2 | 0 |
| Touches | 70.3 | 47 |
| Pass accuracy | 85% | 93% |
| Possession lost | 9.8 | 3.6 |
| Tackles | 1.1 | 1.1 |
| Aerial duels won | 2.9 | 0.4 |
| Clearances | 4 | 2.1 |
Adarabioyo’s ability with the ball aligns with Ratcliffe’s vision for the team’s playing style, which emphasizes dominance through possession. Both he and Martinez are proactive defenders, adept at pressing attackers, allowing United to play a higher defensive line.
Adarabioyo’s height (6’5″) makes him a formidable presence in aerial duels, complementing Martinez’s more aggressive but less physically imposing style (5’9″). This dynamic can enhance United’s defensive stability, with Adarabioyo covering ground and Martinez engaging in duels.
Having Adarabioyo, whom football journalist Zach Lowy praised as an “incredible” defender, would address Martinez’s vulnerability to aerial challenges. This balance is crucial for a top-tier defense.
In summary, Adarabioyo possesses the qualities to thrive at a top-six club. Acquiring a player of his caliber on a free transfer is a valuable opportunity Manchester United should seize.
