Here is a roundup of the top Chelsea news, gossip and transfer latest from icfootballnews featuring the likes of Joao Pedro, Nicolas Jackson and Benoit Badiashile that you may have missed…
Chelsea defender Benoit Badiashile has completed a season-long loan move to Serie A side Napoli, bringing an end—at least temporarily—to a mixed three-and-a-half-year spell at Stamford Bridge.
The 25-year-old French international, capped twice by his country, joined Chelsea from Monaco in January 2023 and went on to make 71 appearances in all competitions for the Blues. His departure was confirmed by Chelsea on Sunday, while Napoli announced that the agreement includes an option to make the transfer permanent.
Badiashile arrived in west London with a growing reputation as one of France’s most promising central defenders and made an encouraging start to life in the Premier League. However, recurring injury problems and fierce competition for places restricted his opportunities, with his most recent campaign particularly disrupted.
He made only eight league appearances last season, according to reports, and the move to Italy offers the defender the opportunity to rebuild momentum and secure more regular first-team football.
Napoli have moved to strengthen their defensive options as they prepare for the new Serie A campaign, and Badiashile’s arrival adds significant experience at both domestic and European level. The 1.94m centre-back brings physicality and left-footed balance to the squad, having previously played more than 100 senior matches for Monaco before his move to England.
Reports in Italy suggest Napoli will pay a loan fee for Badiashile and hold an option to buy at the end of the season, although the precise financial structure has varied between outlets. One report placed the purchase option at €20 million, with the overall figure potentially rising through bonuses and add-ons.
Speaking after the move, Badiashile described joining Napoli as “a great honour”, saying he was ready to give everything for the shirt and the city as he begins the next chapter of his career.
For CHELSEA, the loan represents another step in reshaping their defensive group, while Napoli will hope Badiashile can rediscover the form that made him such a highly regarded prospect during his Monaco years.
Whether the Frenchman’s stay in Naples extends beyond the 2026-27 season will depend on his performances, but the season-long move gives Badiashile a clear opportunity to revive his career and establish himself as a key figure in Italian football.
JACKSON WANTS MADRID
Nicolas Jackson has reportedly identified Atletico Madrid as his preferred destination as uncertainty continues to surround the Chelsea striker’s future, although the Blues are understood to favour a permanent sale to Aston Villa.
According to the latest reports, Jackson has given Atletico his approval and would welcome a return to Spain after his previous spell in La Liga with Villarreal. The Senegal international is said to be attracted by the prospect of working under Diego Simeone and returning to a league in which he established himself before his move to Stamford Bridge.
Atletico have explored a loan deal, with director Mateu Alemany reportedly travelling to London for talks, but Chelsea’s preference for a permanent transfer has complicated negotiations.
Chelsea are believed to be holding out for a significant fee, with Sky Sports reporting that the club value Jackson at around £65 million. That valuation could make Aston Villa a more attractive option for CHELSEA, particularly if Unai Emery’s side complete the sale of Ollie Watkins, who has received interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal.
Villa are expected to consider an approach for Jackson should Watkins leave, and Emery’s previous relationship with the forward could prove significant. Jackson worked under the Spanish coach at Villarreal, and has previously credited Emery with helping to transform his understanding of the game and develop his tactical awareness.
However, Jackson’s reported preference appears to be a return to La Liga. Atletico would offer the 25-year-old an opportunity to revive his career in familiar surroundings, having enjoyed a productive spell at Villarreal before joining Chelsea.
Reports suggest the Madrid club see him as an attractive addition because of his pace, physicality and ability to stretch opposition defences.
The key issue remains the structure of any deal. Atletico’s reported interest has centred on a loan, while CHELSEA want a permanent exit. AS has reported that this difference has caused Atletico to consider alternative targets, potentially opening the door for Aston Villa if their pursuit of a Watkins replacement becomes more urgent.
With the transfer window entering its decisive stage, Jackson’s future could therefore depend on whether Atletico can improve their proposal or whether Villa formalise their interest
PEDRO DEAL ANNOUNCED
Chelsea forward João Pedro has committed his long-term future to the club after signing a new contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2034, with the Brazilian expressing his delight at extending his stay in west London.
The 24-year-old striker has been rewarded following an impressive first season at Chelsea, having established himself as a key figure in the club’s attack since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2025.
Pedro’s previous deal had already represented a long-term commitment, but the new agreement further underlines Chelsea’s determination to build around the Brazil international. The extension also comes amid reports of interest from leading European clubs, making the new contract a significant statement from both player and club
‘I am very happy to sign a new contract with Chelsea,’ Joao Pedro said. ‘I always dreamed of playing for a big club, and it means a lot to me to give my long-term commitment to this club. Chelsea has a long tradition of winning and it has big ambitions for the future.
‘I have a very good relationship with everyone here at the club and I have felt at home here in London from the moment that I joined.
‘Everyone is very excited for this season. We know we can achieve a lot of things, we have a great team, we have a coach who wants to win and has won already. I am fully committed, everyone is ready and hopefully we can achieve our targets.’
CHELSEA’s decision to secure the striker until 2034 reflects the club’s confidence in his ability to remain a central figure for years to come. The agreement also provides stability ahead of the new season, with Pedro expected to carry a significant share of the attacking responsibility.
The Brazilian’s long-term commitment is another positive development for Chelsea as the club looks to build on recent success and challenge for further trophies. Pedro has spoken positively about the ambition within the squad and believes the team has the potential to achieve even more.
For the player, the new contract represents both a reward for his strong start and an opportunity to continue building his legacy at one of English football’s biggest clubs.
CHELSEA will now hope Pedro’s future commitment is followed by further success on the pitch, with the striker appearing determined to repay the faith shown in him
MORE BIG CHELSEA NEWS AND GOSSIP
Latest: Chelsea welcome brand new signing – Chelsea CONFIRMS midfielder deal – midfielder completes move
Top Read: Chelsea agreement close for attacker – Alsono green lights £65M move – Chelsea in talks for powerhouse deal
Must Check Out: Alonso told woridle will be great Chelsea signing – Blues to sign up 23-goal star – Chelsea contact, offered £200k-a-week star