Napoli‘s plans to strengthen their backline have encountered an immediate setback after Chelsea dismissed an approach to take defender Benoît Badiashile on loan. The rejection comes as the Serie A club races to secure emergency cover following a serious knee injury to Alessandro Buongiorno.
The Italy international sustained damage to his right knee that will force him to miss Napoli’s pre-season training camp in Dimaro. Medical staff are yet to determine whether surgery is required, leaving his recovery timeline uncertain and potentially extending his absence beyond the summer preparation period.
Milan emerge as rivals for Tiago Gabriel
With Buongiorno unavailable, sporting director Giovanni Manna and manager Massimiliano Allegri have made a new centre-back their immediate priority. Portuguese defender Tiago Gabriel has emerged as the leading candidate, though Napoli face strong competition from Milan.
The 22-year-old Lecce defender, who impressed during last season’s survival campaign, recently appointed super-agent Jorge Mendes to represent him. Mendes has already held discussions with Milan officials, who monitored Tiago Gabriel extensively throughout the previous campaign. The Rossoneri are actively restructuring their defensive unit and could challenge Napoli for the player’s signature.
Lecce have placed an approximate €25 million valuation on the centre-back, a significant fee that reflects his growing reputation in Serie A. Juventus and Inter had also previously registered interest in the player earlier this month, though Napoli and Milan currently lead the chase.
Alternative targets and late window options
Beyond Tiago Gabriel, Napoli are evaluating several domestic alternatives. Juventus defender Federico Gatti is available as his club attempts to streamline their squad, while Udinese’s Oumar Solet remains on the shortlist despite attracting interest from multiple top-flight rivals.
Regarding Badiashile, Chelsea have indicated they will only entertain negotiations for a permanent transfer, even though the Frenchman is reportedly not part of their first-team plans. Napoli may revisit a potential deal for the 25-year-old towards the end of August should he remain at Stamford Bridge as the window closes.
The coming weeks will prove decisive for Napoli’s recruitment strategy. With pre-season training commencing shortly and Buongiorno’s recovery timeline unclear, Manna and Allegri must act swiftly to secure adequate defensive reinforcements ahead of the new campaign.