Chelsea star had a 'full agreement' to leave before Liverpool stinker

Tom Weber

• Updated: 2 Feb 2024 22:24 GMT
• 3 min read

Benoit Badiashile had a 'full agreement' to join AC Milan in January, according to Italian media.

The French defender has not yet managed to recapture the form and potential he showed at Monaco in Ligue 1 since his €38 million switch to Chelsea a year ago.

In the Blues' most recent game against Liverpool, the 22-year-old put in a particularly unimpressive showing, though he was far from the only one, in fairness. However, it was noticeable just how badly Badiashile looked out of his depth against the rampant Reds.

It would be unfair to suggest that his mind was elsewhere during that game, but it has now been revealed that the Chelsea man had been in talks over a move to AC Milan previously, even reaching a 'full agreement' with the Serie A giants.

Milan move fell through

At least that is according to Sky Italy's Gianluca di Marzio, who reports that the Frenchman had agreed terms with the Rossoneri in January. Links to Milan had already appeared in December as Badiashile had struggled for game time at that point.

The rumours were initially dismissed, but it seems that there was actually an interest on Milan's part. It is asserted that Chelsea eventually blocked the move once Badiashile became a regular fixture in Mauricio Pochettino's side.

A permanent move would have been out of the question for Milan given their finances, but a loan move could perhaps have been a good solution for everyone involved considering Badiashile's Anfield showing. Milan ultimately did not manage to bring in the defensive reinforcements they so desired in January.

The Rossoneri are reportedly plotting free-transfer moves for Liverpool targets Lloyd Kelly and Tosin Adarabioyo for the next transfer window. Both Premier League defenders are out of contract in the summer and are reportedly also on the Reds' shortlist.