In a recent report, Nigerian outlet Completesports.com revealed that Aston Villa are among several clubs hoping to land Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo this summer. It is understood that the Villans will face competition in the form of Southampton, Norwich City, West Ham United and Newcastle United in pursuit of the Cottagers centre-back in this off-season (via Completesports.com).
Adarabioyo’s Impressive Form In English Football Last Season
Adarabioyo enjoyed a solid season at Craven Cottage despite suffering relegation from the Premier League recently. The 23-year-old featured in 34 matches for the London outfit last season in multiple competitions, picking up one yellow card.
The Manchester-born sensation proved his worth as a capable defender by averaging 1.1 tackles, 1.3 interceptions and 5.8 clearances per game in the 2020-21 Premier League campaign. He was also excellent when distributing possession in the opposition half after making 86.2% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Adarabioyo has taken great strides towards improving himself over the past ten months, so the Villans would do well to get him on board during this summer transfer window. He can serve as a decent squad player at Villa Park next season and has the potential to become a class act in his position someday.
Will Recruiting Adarabioyo Be A Wise Move For The Villans?
Adarabioyo can use his powerful 1.95m frame to overpower the opposition and win some important 50-50 aerial duels for his team. The defender of Nigerian heritage has a good leap in him that allows him to dominate the penalty box with authority. He can also be a decent passer of the ball from the back.
Adarabioyo is proficient at timing his tackles well to secure possession back for his team. He can clear his lines when needed but needs to find a way to keep more clean sheets in top-flight football. Hence, signing him would be a wise move for the West Midlands outfit ahead of the new campaign as he will add a lot of bite and steel to Dean Smith’s backline.
At 23, the Fulham defensive ace still has plenty of time to justify his worth at the highest level. He would enjoy playing football under Smith at Villa Park and could help the Villans challenge for a top-six place in the next Premier League campaign. With all things considered, Smith should consider moving in for the defender this summer as he could turn out to be a shrewd addition to his match-day squad in the long run.
