Naples have made an initial approach for Chelsea defender Benoît Badiashile, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. The Serie A club have reportedly offered a €3 million loan deal for the 25-year-old French international, with a proposed salary of €2.5 million for the season. The move comes as Napoli seek defensive reinforcements following an injury to Alessandro Buongiorno.
Badiashile arrived at Chelsea in January 2023 from Monaco, but has struggled for consistent playing time. Injuries and strong competition for places have limited his appearances, with the centre-back featuring in just 16 matches during the 2025-2026 season. He has earned two caps for the French national team, but has not been a regular feature in the squad.
Napoli have already been active in the transfer window, completing deals for Rasmus Hojlund from Manchester United for €44 million, Alisson Santos from Sporting for €16.5 million, and goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic from Torino for €6 million. However, Sky Sport Italia reports that the club may need to sell players before making further additions, potentially complicating a deal for a second French defender.
Napoli are also monitoring Jean-Clair Todibo of West Ham, viewing him as a potential option to bolster their defence. However, the club are aware that Todibo is attracting interest from other European teams. With only one defensive spot realistically available, it appears unlikely that both Badiashile and Todibo will join Napoli this summer. The club’s priority remains addressing the injury to Buongiorno, and a single addition is currently favoured.
Badiashile’s potential move to Naples would offer him a chance to secure regular first-team football, something he has been unable to achieve consistently at Chelsea. This loan move could prove beneficial for both clubs, providing Napoli with a needed defensive option and giving Badiashile the opportunity to rediscover his form.
