West Ham United are reportedly showing strong interest in securing a permanent transfer for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi this upcoming summer, according to sources from Football Insider. The 27-year-old centre-back is currently on a loan spell with the Hammers that runs until the end of the current season, after which he is scheduled to return to his parent club at Stamford Bridge.
Survival Battle and Transfer Ambitions
Under the management of Nuno Espirito Santo, West Ham are embroiled in a tense fight to preserve their Premier League status. Their recent 0-0 draw against AFC Bournemouth at the London Stadium left them with a single point, keeping the team firmly in the relegation zone alongside Wolves and Burnley. This precarious position directly impacts their transfer plans, as staying in the top flight is crucial for any potential permanent move for Disasi.
Loan Success and Future Prospects
Disasi joined West Ham on loan in January, primarily to gain consistent playing time after falling out of favour at Chelsea. Since his arrival, the former France international has made a notably positive impression, seamlessly integrating into the starting lineup and addressing what has been a problematic centre-back position for the club. His performances have reportedly impressed key figures at West Ham, marking him as a significant upgrade over other defensive options.
Originally signed by Chelsea in 2023 from AS Monaco, following stints at Paris FC and Stade de Reims, Disasi has made 61 appearances for the Blues across all competitions, contributing five goals. He was previously loaned to Aston Villa during the last campaign, highlighting Chelsea's willingness to offload him.
Expert Insight on the Potential Deal
Former football chief executive Mick Brown commented on the situation, emphasising the benefits of the loan system. He stated, "It's one of the major benefits of the loan system; you get to see players in your own environment who you might otherwise have had doubts about signing permanently. He's gone in there, it looks like he fits in well with what Nuno Espirito Santo is trying to do, and he's been a big upgrade on their other options."
Brown added, "Chelsea obviously don't want him, they left him out of their plans, so they'll be open to a permanent move at the end of the season. It looks like that's something West Ham will be interested in too, if they stay in the Premier League, he continues to impress, and if the price is right."
The potential transfer hinges on multiple factors: West Ham's ability to avoid relegation, Disasi's continued strong performances, and the negotiation of a suitable fee. If the Hammers drop to the Championship, a permanent deal for Disasi is considered highly unlikely, underscoring the high stakes of their current league campaign.
