Man Utd co-owners Avram Glazer and Sir Jim Ratcliffe. (Image: Getty)
Manchester United finally launched a pursuit of Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo last weekend but discovered that Chelsea had already all but won the race, according to reports. Delayed transfer movements have been a significant issue under the Glazers regime, tasking INEOS to ensure operations run much more smoothly.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe's early appointments as part of a ruthless staff overhaul have offered hope that positive change is on the way.
Jason Wilcox is already working as United's new technical director. Meanwhile, Omar Berrada will become chief executive on July 13 and Newcastle United sporting director Dan Ashworth is also incoming.
But while the new-look INEOS hierarchy is taking shape this summer, supporters fear that they could be in for more of the same when it comes to dysfunctional recruitment.
Those concerns will intensify after United reportedly missed out on a bargain deal for Adarabioyo, who is Chelsea-bound.
According to the Mail, the Red Devils launched a late push for Adarabioyo's services at the weekend, making a concrete proposal only to learn that he was off the table.
The 26-year-old will be available on a free transfer upon the expiry of his Fulham contract this summer, and he looks set to remain in West London.
Adarabioyo's switch to Chelsea is reportedly expected to be confirmed in the coming days, with Enzo Maresca's appointment as head coach crucial in his decision.
Tosin Adarabioyo is set to join Chelsea. (Image: Getty)
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
The pair worked together in Manchester City's academy, and Chelsea are said to have tabled an improved contract offer after announcing Maresca's arrival.
Wilcox also worked with Adarabioyo on the blue side of Manchester and may have fuelled United's interest, which they expressed months ago.
But the M16 giants and Newcastle United, who also held talks with the centre-back, face disappointment in a coup for Chelsea.
The report adds that Adarabioyo underwent his medical with the Blues and agreed a contract on Tuesday, days after United's unsuccessful approach.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
United have been entangled in a prolonged end-of-season review since lifting the FA Cup two weeks ago, during which they have pondered Erik ten Hag's future as manager.
Combined with the fact Ratcliffe's new recruitment team isn't yet complete, pre-transfer window movement was always going to be difficult.
Reports claim United want to sign two centre-backs, a left-back, a midfielder and a striker this summer.
Adarabioyo represented an exciting option to save a good chunk of a restricted budget - amid FFP and PSR limitations - but United have somewhat characteristically acted too late.
