Super Eagles or England? How a potential Como transfer could shape Tosin Adarabioyo’s international future

Super Eagles target and Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has been linked with a summer transfer to Italian Serie A side Como, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The 28-year-old center-back joined Chelsea from Fulham two years ago, but his time at the club has been topsy-turvy. He has struggled to secure a regular starting spot under various managers.

​Last season, he featured in 29 games across all competitions. With the arrival of coach Xabi Alonso and the expected squad overhaul, Adarabioyo could be one of the casualties.

Would signing Xhaka show a shift in strategy at Stamford Bridge? 👀

Excluding Chelsea's first transfer window under their ownership, Blueco's oldest signing is currently Tosin Adarabioyo – who joined on a free transfer from Fulham in 2024. 👦 pic.twitter.com/TkOdrG51ro

— Flashscore.com (@Flashscorecom) June 28, 2026

​Como, looking to improve their squad depth after qualifying for Europe, has emerged as a potential destination. According to Italian football expert Alfredo Pedulla, while the Lariani have other top targets, the Anglo-Nigerian is high on their wishlist.

​Adarabioyo is currently valued at €16 million on Transfermarkt. With two years left on his contract, Chelsea will likely be open to a sale to secure a profit, especially since he does not appear to be central to Alonso’s plans.

​It remains to be seen how the transfer pans out, but if he makes the move, it would have significant implications for both his club and international career.

​How Potential Como Move Could Affect Adarabioyo’s Choice to Play for the Super Eagles

​Tosin Adarabioyo was born in England to Nigerian parents, making him eligible to represent either country at the international level.

​He played for England at the U-19 level but has failed to break into the senior Three Lions squad. For years, he has waited for an England call-up, but it has not materialized.

​In the past year, he has often hinted at the possibility of switching allegiance to the three-time African champions, and Adarabioyo even visited Nigeria last summer.

​At 28, he will undoubtedly be looking to make his mark on the international scene. With England’s repeated snubs, Nigeria has become an increasingly enticing option.

​If the Manchester City academy product moves to Como, it would effectively signal the end of his pursuit of an England career. Historically, players called up by England are almost exclusively drawn from the Premier League. Players based outside of England are rarely considered unless they are world-class talents like Jude Bellingham or Harry Kane.

​For example, Fikayo Tomori has struggled to earn a consistent look-in since moving to AC Milan.

​Consequently, if Adarabioyo decides to join Como, his chances of playing for the Three Lions would drop to near zero. He would then have to commit to Nigeria if he wishes to pursue international football.

​Is Adarabioyo Good Enough for the Super Eagles?

​Adarabioyo plays for one of the best clubs in the world, Chelsea, which is a testament to his quality.

​However, one could argue that Nigeria does not necessarily need him. The Super Eagles squad already boasts solid defenders like Calvin Bassey, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Emmanuel Fernandez, and Benjamin Fredrick.

​While he would certainly be a valuable addition to the team, his body of work with the Blues has not established him as a consistent defensive stalwart.

​During Eric Chelle’s time as Nigeria coach, he has given opportunities to many new players. Perhaps Adarabioyo could join that list soon.