Man Utd poised to 'hijack' imminent Fulham transfer news

Manchester United could look to launch a last-ditch attempt to hijack a deal between wantaway Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo and Newcastle United.

That's according to BBC journalist Nizaar Kinsella, who confirmed the news on Wednesday night. The report comes after claims that the Magpies were on the verge of coming to terms with Adarabioyo, whose contract at Craven Cottage expires this summer.

That means that the 26-year-old is available on a free transfer, which is said to have caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur as well as Newcastle United and the Red Devils. Football Insider reports that representatives from the Tyneside outfit are in London on Thursday to meet with the player.

It is said that the Saudi-backed business could offer the centre-back a contract of over £100,000 a week to triple his current Fulham deal and lure him to St James' Park. However, the Geordies will have to look over their shoulder with news of a late Manchester United swoop.

Adarabioyo had previously been touted as a top transfer target for Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Old Trafford, before Newcastle United appeared to emerge as favourites to tie up a deal. The businessman is believed to be keen on moving away from blowing huge transfer fees in favour of a more conservative approach, making a free transfer for the Fulham defender a priority.

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Fulham supporters won't be all too surprised to see Adarabioyo leave the Cottage this summer with the player having been left out of the squad for the last four league outings of the season - although Silva confirmed the player was available.

He explained: "He can play. We have three more games to play. If we need him to play and I decide to put him on the pitch, he’s going to be on the pitch. Is he going to play again for Fulham? That’s my decision. I’m looking for the present. I want to win football matches but at the same time we have to prepare for the future of the club."