Napoli turn to Chelsea outcast Benoit Badiashile amid defensive injury crisis

Napoli have reportedly identified Chelsea defender Benoit Badiashile as a potential solution to their growing defensive concerns following Alessandro Buongiorno’s injury setback.

The Serie A giants are said to be monitoring the French centre-back as they look to strengthen their backline after Buongiorno suffered a meniscus injury, leaving Antonio Conte’s side short of options in central defence.

According to The Sun, Badiashile has emerged as a target for Napoli, who are keen to add another experienced defender before the transfer window closes.

The 25-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a key figure at Stamford Bridge and could be heading for the exit door after falling down the pecking order under new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso.

Badiashile faces uncertain Chelsea future

Badiashile’s future at Chelsea appears increasingly unclear, with the defender reportedly not included in Alonso’s plans for the upcoming campaign.

The Blues are also closing in on the signing of Maxence Lacroix, a move that could further reduce Badiashile’s chances of regular first-team football in west London.

With Chelsea set to compete without European football next season, competition for places in the squad is expected to intensify, making consistent playing time even harder to secure for the former Monaco defender.

Since joining Chelsea from Monaco in 2023, Badiashile has shown flashes of his ability but has been unable to cement a permanent place in the starting XI due to injuries and competition from other defenders.

Napoli offer chance for career revival

A move to Italy could provide Badiashile with an opportunity to restart his career and regain the confidence that made him one of Europe’s highly rated young defenders during his time in Ligue 1.

The report claims the Frenchman is open to the possibility of moving to Serie A, where Napoli are looking for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season.

However, the Italian club may not have a straightforward path to completing the deal, with an unnamed Premier League side also believed to be interested in securing his services.

Napoli’s pursuit of Badiashile highlights their urgency to address their defensive shortage, while Chelsea’s willingness to consider his departure could pave the way for a summer transfer agreement.