Chelsea have reportedly turned down AC Milan’s loan bid with an option to buy for centre-back Benoit Badiashile.
The 22-year-old French defender, who signed from Monaco for £32.7m last January, have faced limited opportunities this season due to injuries and increased competition in Chelsea’s defensive lineup.
Despite reports of Milan’s interest in offering Badiashile an exit route, Chelsea rejected the proposal.
Two key reasons highlighted for the refusal as revealed by TEAMTalk are; the club believes it’s premature to assess Badiashile after less than 20 games.
Secondly, allowing him leave will necessitate a replacement signing, which Chelsea are unwilling to pursue at this stage.
Instead of Badiashile, Chelsea are contemplating the departure of veteran Brazilian defender Thiago Silva at the end of the season.
The 39-year-old whose contract expires by the end of the season, may not receive a new deal from the club, giving some factors including his age.
However, Silva, despite his age, has been a crucial part of Chelsea’s defense and was named both Chelsea Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year in the 2022/23 season.
If Silva leaves, retaining Badiashile will become more vital for Chelsea’s defensive options.
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