Report: Chelsea defender Benoit Badiashile emerges as Napoli transfer target

Talks are understood to be progressing between the two clubs, with Badiashile’s representatives also involved as all parties attempt to settle the terms of a permanent transfer.

The 25-year-old has been with Chelsea since January 2023, when he arrived from Monaco on a long-term contract running until June 2030. A physically imposing left-footed centre-back standing at 1.94m, Badiashile offers strength in the air as well as composure when bringing the ball out from defence.

He developed through Monaco’s academy before making his senior debut at only 17 in November 2018. The defender subsequently established himself as a key figure at the Ligue 1 club, accumulating more than 130 appearances across domestic and European competitions before his 22nd birthday.

Badiashile has also represented France from Under-16 level through to the Under-21s and made his senior international debut in September 2022 during the UEFA Nations League.

His possible departure comes amid a reshuffle of Chelsea’s defensive ranks. Trevoh Chalobah has already moved to Como, while former Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix has arrived at Stamford Bridge.

Lacroix is expected to compete alongside Levi Colwill, Tosin and Wesley Fofana for regular starts, with the new signing also viewed as part of Chelsea’s preferred defensive group.

There remains uncertainty over the futures of Axel Disasi, Mamadou Sarr and Aaron Anselmino, adding further intrigue to Chelsea’s centre-back situation.

Badiashile was also part of the Chelsea squad that lifted the UEFA Conference League in 2024-25, starting in the final victory over Real Betis.