Napoli sign Benoît Badiashile from Chelsea on loan with option to buy

Napoli have completed the signing of Benoît Badiashile from Chelsea on an initial loan deal that includes an option to buy.

The Serie A champions confirmed the arrival of the France international on Saturday as they continue to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season.

According to reports in Italy, the overall value of the deal could eventually reach €23 million if Napoli activate the purchase option.

Badiashile leaves Chelsea after three-and-a-half years at Stamford Bridge, having joined the Premier League club from Monaco in January 2023.

The 25-year-old struggled to establish himself as a consistent first-choice defender in west London and had been among the players Chelsea were prepared to move on during the summer transfer window.

Napoli have now offered him the opportunity to rebuild momentum in Serie A, where his physical profile and ability to play on the left side of central defence should add further depth to the squad.

The move also continues Chelsea’s efforts to reduce the size of their first-team group ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Badiashile joins Napoli with experience in both the Premier League and European competition, while the structure of the agreement gives the Italian club flexibility before deciding whether to make the transfer permanent.

The deal is now complete, with Badiashile officially beginning the next stage of his career in Naples.