By Conor Hogan

West Ham appear to be closing in on a loan deal for Chelsea’s Axel Disasi.

That’s the view of Fabrizio Romano, who reported on Thursday night that “West Ham are now accelerating” with a move for the defender. Disasi would be the Hammers’ fourth first-team signing of the window, following the acquisitions of Taty Castellanos, Pablo & Adama Traoré.

The Chelsea man has made 61 appearances for the Blues since his move to London in 2023, but is yet to feature for Liam Rosenior’s side this season. His playing time has been restricted both under Rosenior and former boss Enzo Maresca, as the Frenchman has only featured for Chelsea’s U21 side this campaign.

Disasi is clearly not in Chelsea’s plans and hasn’t been for a while. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, featuring 10 times for Unai Emery’s side across both the Premier League and Champions League.

Following the release of Igor Julio back to Brighton, West Ham have freed up a domestic loan slot, which is seemingly set to be occupied by the Chelsea defender – but what could he bring to Nuno Espírito Santo’s side?

The Frenchman, who has five caps for his country, has been described as a “leader” by Chelsea fans – something that could certainly benefit a West Ham side in danger of relegation. He is a versatile player, capable of playing at both centre-back and right-back, and his height will also be of use. At 6’3”, his aerial prowess could help a Hammers side that has been so susceptible from set-pieces this season. 

However, that seems to be where the positives end. I, like many others, am unsure of this move. Disasi will probably be an upgrade on Max Kilman and possibly Igor Julio, but he has done little in recent times to prove his quality. 

The Frenchman arrived from Monaco for €45 million in 2023 but hasn’t made much of an impact at Stamford Bridge – although he is hardly the first big-money signing to disappoint for the Blues. 

Considering West Ham were linked with Charlie Cresswell at the start of the window, a move for Disasi seems slightly underwhelming.

However, the Irons desperately need reinforcements, and the Chelsea defender has played at the highest level. It is only fair that fans give him a chance, although I am not expecting big things.