Benfica are targeting a move for Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo, with head coach Marco Silva identifying his former Fulham player as the club's preferred replacement for António Silva.
The Portuguese giants are hoping to secure the centre-back on loan, leaving Chelsea with a decision to make over the 28-year-old's future this summer.
Marco Silva wants Fulham reunion
According to Correio da Manhã, Silva has made Adarabioyo his priority defensive target after previously working with the defender for three seasons at Fulham.
The pair enjoyed a successful spell together between 2021 and 2024, with Adarabioyo making 98 appearances and scoring five goals before leaving Craven Cottage for Chelsea on a free transfer.
Although the defender has featured 70 times across two seasons at Stamford Bridge, he is no longer considered a first-choice option, opening the door to a possible departure.
Benfica searching for António Silva replacement
Benfica entered the market after selling António Silva to Bournemouth in a deal worth around €25 million (£21.7 million).
The Lisbon club had explored several alternatives, but a number of their preferred targets have already moved elsewhere.
Former Famalicão defender Ibrahima Ba joined Sporting CP, while Issa Diop completed a transfer to Ipswich Town, prompting Benfica to switch their focus to Adarabioyo.
Silva's familiarity with the Chelsea defender is understood to be a major factor behind the club's interest.
Loan proposal on the table
Rather than pursuing a permanent transfer, Benfica are hoping to negotiate a loan deal that includes an option to buy.
The structure would allow the Portuguese side to strengthen their defence without committing to a significant upfront fee, an approach they have used successfully in recent transfer windows.
Chelsea, however, have yet to indicate whether they are willing to sanction such an arrangement, and there is no suggestion formal negotiations have begun.
Key Points
- Benfica want to sign Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo.
- Marco Silva has identified his former Fulham player as his preferred target.
- Benfica hope to complete a loan deal with an option to buy.
- The Portuguese club are replacing António Silva following his move to Bournemouth.
- Chelsea have not yet approved a loan or opened formal negotiations.
What's next?
Benfica are expected to continue exploring a loan agreement with Chelsea as they search for a new centre-back before the transfer window closes. The next move rests with the Blues, who must decide whether Adarabioyo remains part of their plans or is allowed to reunite with Marco Silva in Portugal.
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