Benoit Badiashile poised for Chelsea exit as Napoli talks gather pace

Benoit Badiashile is close to leaving Chelsea for Napoli after negotiations between the two clubs accelerated significantly in recent days.

An agreement is reported to have been reached for the transfer of the 25-year-old defender, according to Foot Mercato. Badiashile is expected to move to the Serie A club on a paid loan worth €3m, with Napoli also receiving an option to buy him for €27m.

The proposed move would represent a significant change in direction for the France international, who joined Chelsea from Monaco in January 2023 for a fee of approximately €38m.

Badiashile has been unable to establish himself as an automatic first-choice player at Stamford Bridge. A switch to Italy could therefore give the French defender, who is of Congolese origin from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the opportunity to revive his career and secure more regular involvement.

He remains under contract with Chelsea until 30 June 2030. Transfermarkt currently values him at €15m, although the reported agreement would give Napoli the chance to make the move permanent for a considerably higher fee.

Napoli are expected to look to Badiashile for experience and defensive strength as they reinforce their squad ahead of the new season. The loan arrangement would allow the Italian club to assess the defender before deciding whether to activate the purchase option.

Badiashile arrived at Chelsea with a strong reputation after his spell at Monaco, but competition for places has limited his opportunities with the Blues. His departure would offer him a fresh environment in Serie A, while Chelsea would retain control over his future through the long-term contract and the reported structure of the deal.

The agreement comes shortly before Fulham are due to play Chelsea in the opening round of the English league season. Chelsea are priced at 2.00 to win that match, with Fulham available at 3.10 and a draw listed at 3.55 by betting company 1xBet.

The reported loan fee and purchase option would make Badiashile the latest Chelsea player whose future has been addressed through a temporary move, while Napoli continue preparations for the new campaign. Should the transfer be completed, the defender will leave Stamford Bridge after two and a half years with the club and begin a new chapter in Italy.