Benoit Badiashile travels to Italy as Napoli move nears completion

Benoit Badiashile has taken a significant step towards leaving Chelsea for Napoli after travelling to Italy on Tuesday to complete the final stages of a proposed move.

The 25-year-old central defender made the journey with his agent, Mounir Sidhoum, who is the head of Cantera Sport. Their visit is intended to help finalise Badiashile’s arrival at Napoli, the reigning Italian champions, according to Foot Mercato.

Chelsea and Napoli have already reached an agreement over the player’s transfer, with the deal expected to be structured as a paid loan. Unless there is an unexpected late change, Badiashile will spend the coming season in Serie A.

Napoli are set to pay €3m for the loan period. The Italian club are also expected to have the option to sign Badiashile permanently at the end of the season, with that clause valued at about €27m.

The proposed agreement would give Napoli the opportunity to retain the defender on a long-term basis if he impresses during his time in Italy. The move is not yet officially complete, but Badiashile’s trip suggests the transfer is now close to being confirmed.

Badiashile, who has Congolese origins from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, remains under contract at Chelsea until 30 June 2030. Transfermarkt currently estimates his market value at €15m.

That valuation is below the potential permanent fee included in the proposed loan arrangement, although the final outcome will depend on whether Napoli choose to exercise their option after the season. For now, the remaining formalities are thought to be the main stages still required before the transfer can be announced.

Badiashile joined Chelsea after establishing himself as a highly rated central defender, but his next move appears increasingly likely to take him away from Stamford Bridge and into Italian football. Napoli’s interest has developed into an agreement between the clubs, while the player’s presence in Italy points to progress in negotiations.

The timing comes shortly before Fulham are due to play Chelsea in the opening round of the English league season. Betting company 1xBet lists Fulham at 3.10 to win that match, with a draw priced at 3.55 and a Chelsea victory at 2.00.

Badiashile’s possible departure means Chelsea could face that fixture with his future already nearing resolution, although his move to Napoli remains subject to the completion and official confirmation of the loan deal.