Chelsea have reportedly set a Friday deadline for Enzo Fernandez as Manchester City continue to show interest in the midfielder.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are also preparing for further changes to their defensive ranks, with Ben Chilwell set to provide competition for Jorrel Hato at left-back under new manager Xabi Alonso.
The Blues have already strengthened their defence with the signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, a move that could push Benoît Badiashile further down the centre-back pecking order.
As a result, Badiashile is expected to leave Stamford Bridge in search of regular first-team football. Standard Sport understands that Chelsea and Napoli have reached a verbal agreement for the French defender, who has not featured for the Blues since starting their FA Cup tie against Wrexham in March.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Napoli will cover Badiashile’s wages and have an option to make the move permanent for €27 million (£23 million) at the end of the season. Chelsea will receive a €3 million (£2.5 million) loan fee.
Badiashile’s departure could pave the way for further exits before the transfer window closes next month. Liam Delap is reportedly available for around £50 million, with several Premier League clubs, including Nottingham Forest and Everton, showing interest in the 23-year-old.
Chelsea are also looking to reduce their options in attack, with Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu attracting both loan and permanent interest.
