Napoli step up interest in Chelsea defender Benoît Badiashile

Napoli have identified Chelsea defender Benoît Badiashile as a key transfer target as the Serie A champions continue to strengthen their squad for the new season.

According to Foot Mercato, the Italian club are working behind the scenes on a possible move for the 25-year-old centre-back, while Spanish side Real Sociedad are also monitoring his situation.

Chelsea open to offers

Badiashile is reportedly among the players who could leave Stamford Bridge this summer if Chelsea receive a suitable offer.

Reports suggest a bid in the region of €30 million could be enough to persuade the Premier League club to sanction the defender’s departure.

Injuries limit Badiashile’s impact

The Frenchman joined Chelsea from AS Monaco in January 2023 in a deal worth €38 million, but he has struggled to secure a regular starting place.

Injuries and inconsistent playing time have hampered his progress in west London, with the defender making just 16 appearances in all competitions last season, including 11 starts.

Since arriving at Chelsea, Badiashile has featured 71 times for the club, scoring two goals and registering one assist.

Napoli lead the race

Napoli are understood to be the most active club pursuing the French defender as they look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Real Sociedad are also keeping tabs on the situation, although their interest is reported to be less advanced than Napoli’s.

At this stage, no agreement has been reached between the clubs, and Badiashile’s future remains unresolved as the summer transfer window continues.