Chelsea to keep flop because of one 'ELITE' trait

Tom Weber

Updated: 4 Nov 2024 19:30 GMT
3 min read

Chelsea are not looking to sell Benoit Badiashile as they believe that his 'elite' passing can be a real asset, according to a report.

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The Frenchman is having a difficult time at Chelsea. Once one of Ligue 1's most highly-rated young defenders, Badiashile has failed to live up to that promise since making the switch to Stamford Bridge.

Badiashile has found himself reduced to a substitute role in the Premier League, only being brought on by Enzo Maresca to help the team see out results, and this clearly is not good enough for a player who cost €38 million.

The 23-year-old had high-profile suitors in previous transfer windows, with AC Milan persistently linked. At the time, however, Chelsea were not interested in sanctioning a sale, preferring to keep the faith in their investment.

However, Badiashile's unimpressive performances this season have now given rise to reports that the Blues have changed their stance and could look to offload him.

Chelsea to keep Badiashile

Back in his native France, it has been asserted that Chelsea are open to cashing in on Badiashile due to Aaron Anselmino joining the club in 2025. However, Ben Jacobs has played down these claims.

The journalist states that Chelsea still rate the centre-back highly and view him as a vital piece in their long-term project. Jacobs reveals that one of the reasons why the Blues remain committed is because of his elite passing, which is 'among the best for defenders in Europe.'

Moreover, Badiashile's versatility makes him an attractive player to have in and around Maresca's squad. Capable of playing pretty much every defensive position, the Frenchman is expected to amass more than enough minutes over the course of a gruelling season even if he is not always a guaranteed starter.