BBC football pundit Garth Crooks had choice words to say for Tosin Adarabioyo in his latest Team of the Week column on BBC.

The 26-year-old Fulham centre-back failed to make Crooks’ starting XI for the week, yet managed to earn praise for his work against West Ham on Sunday.

A brace from Andreas Pereira and a clean sheet at the back saw Fulham take back to Craven Cottage all three points in an all-round sublime performance against the Hammers on their turf.

“Notable mentions should go to Calvin Bassey and Tosin Adarabioyo who defended particularly well and never gave Danny Ings or Michail Antonio a kick all afternoon, while Alex Iwobi seems to be finding himself again after a difficult time at Everton.”

Crooks praising the Fulham centre-backs for their showing on Sunday

Adarabioyo’s recent performance will only help in securing him a better contract ahead of next season, regardless of where he ends up plying his trade come August.

The former England U19 international has his current contract expiring at the end of this season, and while Fulham have been trying to tie him to a new deal, interest from the big Premier League sharks might become harder to resist the more consistent his performances become.

🚨 | Newcastle are looking into the possibility of signing #mufc centre-back target Tosin Adarabioyo this summer. [@LukeEdwardsTele] pic.twitter.com/n7ydbZooTI

— UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) April 15, 2024

Tosin stock rising ahead of summer transfer window

Manchester United, alongside Spurs, Liverpool, and West Ham themselves, have been closely monitoring Adarabioyo’s situation. The youngster has proven his ability at the top level and appears ready to take the next step in his career.

The 26-year-old would certainly be a wise pick-up, if the Red Devils could manage it. That, however, seems unlikely against the better-placed likes of Liverpool and Spurs.

That Adarabioyo is a former Manchester City graduate works further to undermine United’s chances of bringing him to Old Trafford this summer, though you never really know.

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The Red Devils need a surgery of their current roster and it is fair to assume that significant money will be needed to address the shortcomings. Adarabioyo’s contract at Fulham is up in the summer, meaning he is available for free. Landing him will ensure United can save some bucks, which can then be used to reinforce other areas of the squad.