Leeds United are reportedly plotting a bold summer swoop for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi, with the Frenchman's impressive loan spell at West Ham turning heads at Elland Road.
The 28-year-old centre-back has been a revelation since joining the Hammers in January, starting 11 consecutive games and making 14 appearances across all competitions. His commanding performances have not only helped stabilize West Ham's backline but have also reignited interest from clubs who tracked him before his move to London.
This comes as Chelsea prepare for a major defensive overhaul. The Blues are expected to be busy on both sides of the transfer market, needing to raise funds while also targeting reinforcements at centre-back, midfield, and attack. With question marks hanging over the futures of Tosin Adarabioyo, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and Benoit Badiashile, Disasi appears almost certain to leave Stamford Bridge permanently this summer.
Transfer insider Peter O'Rourke has provided a fascinating update on the situation. "I think there'll be a lot of clubs looking at Disasi, he's really resurrected his career during this loan move to West Ham," O'Rourke told Football Insider. "He doesn't seem to have a long-term future at Chelsea, so I would fully expect him to leave on a permanent basis in the summer window."
However, West Ham's Premier League status could be a deciding factor. "If West Ham go down, there will probably be no chance of signing him on a permanent basis," O'Rourke added. "Leeds did look at Disasi before he moved to West Ham, they were one of the clubs that were interested. It's a situation that they will be keeping tabs on."
For Leeds manager Daniel Farke, the timing couldn't be better. The Whites have recently switched to a three-man defensive formation and are expected to strengthen their centre-back options this summer, making a £38m-rated talent like Disasi an intriguing proposition. With his form at West Ham making headlines, this transfer saga is one to watch closely as the window approaches.
