Chelsea respond as ‘top clubs’ approach in-demand defender

Chelsea remain firm in their stance that Benoit Badiashile will not leave the club in January, according to French media.

The Blues defender continues to be the subject of intense speculation. Badiashile has not managed to break into Enzo Maresca’s first-choice line-up and primarily features as part of the ‘B Team’ that plays in the cup competitions and Conference League.

Given that Badiashile was once one of Ligue 1’s most highly-rated up-and-coming defenders, his current situation has attracted the attention of other clubs. In fact, the centre-back has been linked with an exit from Chelsea for pretty much a year by this point.

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Badiashile has never quite managed to find his feet at Stamford Bridge and a change of scenery may be needed to help him fulfil his evident potential. Chelsea, however, have made it clear to suitors that they will not be a pleasant negotiating partner.

Chelsea to keep Badiashile

Every time a new rumour surrounding Badiashile crops up, a swift rebuttal soon follows. Despite his limited minutes, Chelsea view the Frenchman as a valuable squad member, with his passing ability the envy of European football as far as centre-backs are concerned.

Nevertheless, clubs keep trying and French outlet RMC has now once again confirmed that Chelsea remain firm in their stance that Badiashile is not on the market for the January window.

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This comes after ‘top clubs’ have approached the Blues regarding a potential move, with Juventus and a Ligue 1 side – believed to be Olympique de Marseille – said to have made contact for the 24-year-old.

These enquiries were quickly rebuffed by the west London giants and Badiashile will, as things stand, be going nowhere in the winter transfer window as far as Chelsea are concerned.