Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Benoit Badiashile from Monaco for a £33.6million fee. The French defender arrives after the Blues have already completed their first transfer in January, with David Datro Fofana joining from Molde.
Badiashile has signed a new seven-and-a-half year deal at Stamford Bridge after completing medical tests earlier this week in London. Graham Potter is currently without Wesley Fofana, Reece James and Ben Chilwell, with the 21-year-old expected to come straight into the first team and compete for a starting spot.
The Blues had identified the France international as a key defensive reinforcement following the injury to their £70million summer signing, Fofana. RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol has been heavily linked with Chelsea, as well as Evan N’Dicka of Eintracht Frankfurt.
READ MORE: Chelsea handed huge boost ahead of Man City clash as Pep Guardiola faces defensive injury blow
After completing his move to Stamford Bridge, Badiashile has sent a message to Chelsea supporters ahead of the Premier League clash against Manchester City this evening (Thursday). Badiashile said: "I’m very happy to be here at Chelsea.
Signed, sealed and delivered! #BonjourBenoit pic.twitter.com/pE8cFT2cPo
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC)
"I’m so excited to start playing for this club. I can’t wait to see the fans and start playing in the best league in the world."
Badiashile won't be available to face City but is expected to be unveiled to fans in attendance at Stamford Bridge. The 21-year-old possesses a strong physique paired with a brilliant ability on the ball and playing out from the back, suiting Potter's play style.
football.london understands the Blues are keen on adding a new striker, central midfielder and right wing-back to provide cover for James. Todd Boehly will be hoping to give Potter the tools he needs to recover a top four finish come the end of the season, with talks continuing with Benfica over a deal for Enzo Fernandez, although they do seem to have stalled, for now at least.
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