Napoli Shows Interest in Chelsea Defender Benoit Badiashile

Benoit Badiashile, the Chelsea centre-back signed for £35 million in January 2023, might be heading to Italy. Napoli has reportedly expressed interest after an injury to their defender Alessandro Buongiorno.

The Frenchman, once seen as a vital defensive signing by Chelsea’s owners, has struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances. This decline has pushed him down the pecking order under several managers. Even with a new coach, Xabi Alonso, coming in, Badiashile is not in the immediate plans, which could limit his chances to add to his 71 appearances over three and a half years at Stamford Bridge.

Potential Move to Serie A

According to The Sun, Napoli wants to offer Badiashile a three-year deal, hoping to secure his services before the 2026-27 season begins. The 25-year-old defender is reportedly open to the idea of a switch to Naples, having made only 16 appearances last season, with just eight in the Premier League.

Transfer Fee Expectations

Chelsea might aim to recoup around £20 million for Badiashile. For context, the Blues hope to get between £30 million and £35 million for Trevoh Chalobah, who is considered a more valuable asset. Badiashile is still bound by a seven-and-a-half-year contract signed in 2023, so Chelsea would want a decent fee to avoid losses.

Napoli could argue that Badiashile hasn’t featured in more than 22 league matches in any season since 2022-23, which might influence their offer. Whether they are willing to meet Chelsea’s valuation remains uncertain.