Chelsea open talks to sign French defender

Chelsea have opened talks with AS Monaco over the potential transfer of Benoit Badiashile in January, The Athletic claim.

The Blues bolstered their central defence last summer with the signings of Kalidou Koulibaly as well as Wesley Fofana.

However, neither have impressed sufficiently. Koulibaly has looked out of his depth since his move from the Italian top-flight.

Meanwhile, Fofana has barely got the chance to settle after a knee injury. The Frenchman is currently out until the turn of the year.

It is now reported by The Athletic that the Blues have started talks with Monaco for Badiashile. They are eyeing a left centre-back.

The 21-year-old is no stranger to Premier League speculation. He was on the radar of Manchester United a couple of years ago.

Badiashile was happy to turn down their advances to stay and he could now consider a move to the English top-flight with Chelsea.

Chelsea will need to pay around €35m to prise him away next month.