Benoit Badiashile of France runs with the ball. (Photo by Aurelien Meunier/Getty Images)
Chelsea are confident of completing a £30 million deal for AS Monaco centre-back Benoit Badiashile, according to The Athletic (subscription required) [h/t Metro].
The Blues are keen on reinforcing their defence ahead of the second half of the season. Graham Potter and co have been heavily linked with a move for RB Leipzig centre-back Josko Gvardiol, having targeted him during the summer but failed in their attempt to land him.
However, the 20-year-old is being monitored by a host of top European clubs and his valuation has gone through the roof after his exceptional performances for Croatia at the World Cup in Qatar.
As such, the west London club have been looking for alternatives and it seems that they have found one. The Blues have opened talks with the French club, and while there is no agreement it is believed that the Blues are confident of sealing a deal for him.
Graham Potter needs to add to his defence. While top defenders like Thiago Silva, Kalidou Koulibaly and Trevoh Chalobah have been good so far, the backline has been one of the leakiest in the top division.
Plus, since Todd Boehly took over there has been a trend of buying young and talented prospects and helping them grow further at Cobham. Badiashile fits such a bill perfectly.
The 21-year-old Monaco academy graduate has been a regular for his club so far this season. The defender has featured in 16 games in all competitions, scoring two goals in the process.
Signing him would allow Potter to increase his depth at the back while also raising competition among the centre-backs. With Silva and Cesar Azpilicueta past their 30s, long-term replacements are needed and the 21-year-old has some good playing experience to take the baton from them.
With the bosses confident of sealing a deal for the young defender, it will come as good news to the fans. With a hectic second half of the season ahead, fans will be eager to see the young Frenchman in action for the club.
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