Axel Disasi, the French centre-back currently on the books at Chelsea, is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated with his limited role at the club. After moving from AS Monaco to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2023, Disasi’s anticipated role as a key defensive figure has not materialized. With the current defensive pecking order at Chelsea, the 25-year-old finds himself on the fringes of the squad, having made only a handful of appearances in the Premier League this season. This situation has led to growing speculation about his future, with several clubs expressing interest in signing him during the upcoming January transfer window.
According to multiple reports, Bayer Leverkusen has initiated contact with Chelsea regarding the potential acquisition of Disasi. The Bundesliga giants are keen to strengthen their defense, especially as they face the looming prospect of losing their captain, Jonathan Tah, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season. Meanwhile, Juventus is also reportedly monitoring the situation, though they are thought to be keen on an initial loan deal something that Chelsea may not find appealing. Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s current head coach, has been reluctant to let players go, but the mounting frustration of Disasi could force a decision on his future.
In this article, we’ll explore Axel Disasi’s current predicament at Chelsea, the potential destinations for him in the January transfer window, and what this could mean for his career moving forward.
Axel Disasi: A Frustrating Season at Chelsea Axel Disasi
When Axel Disasi joined Chelsea in the summer of 2023 for a reported £38 million, there were high expectations surrounding his potential. The French defender had earned a solid reputation at AS Monaco, impressing with his physicality, leadership, and aerial ability. He was expected to be a regular feature in Chelsea’s defense, especially after a summer of heavy investment in new players.
However, as the season has progressed, Disasi has found himself sidelined in favor of other options, and it has become clear that his role within the team is far more limited than anticipated. Currently, Disasi is fifth in the defensive pecking order at Chelsea, behind Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, and Tosin Adarabioyo. As a result, he has managed just four Premier League appearances this season—far from the regular starting role he had envisioned.
A Battle for Minutes: The Impact on Disasi’s Career
Disasi’s situation at Chelsea is particularly frustrating for the player, given his ambitions to continue growing and cementing his place in the French national team. With the Euro 2024 on the horizon, Disasi is likely keen to secure more playing time to remain in the international fold. Unfortunately, his lack of minutes at Chelsea could jeopardize both his club and international future.
The competition for places in Chelsea’s defense is fierce, with manager Enzo Maresca opting for other, more established options, leaving Disasi in a constant battle for game time. While Maresca has been supportive of his players and has expressed a desire to keep everyone in the squad, it’s clear that the lack of regular opportunities has caused frustration for the Frenchman.
As reported by Sky Sports Switzerland, this frustration has led Disasi to consider his options, and he is now contemplating leaving Chelsea in January to reignite his career elsewhere. With only four appearances to his name, Disasi may feel that he needs a move to a club where he can play more regularly, especially given his aspirations of representing France at the highest level.
Bayer Leverkusen: A New Opportunity in the Bundesliga
One of the clubs reportedly interested in signing Axel Disasi is Bayer Leverkusen, who have reached out to Chelsea to discuss a potential winter move. Leverkusen is currently enjoying a strong season in the Bundesliga, sitting at the upper end of the table and competing for European football. Their interest in Disasi is part of a broader strategy to strengthen their defense, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Jonathan Tah’s future at the club.
Jonathan Tah’s Expiring Contract: A Key Factor in Leverkusen’s Interest
Jonathan Tah, Bayer Leverkusen’s captain and a central figure in their defense, is entering the final six months of his contract with the club. Tah has made it clear that he will not be renewing his deal, which leaves Leverkusen with a gap in their defensive line. The club is now seeking a replacement, and Disasi, with his experience in top-flight football and international pedigree, fits the bill.
Leverkusen’s interest in Disasi makes sense from a sporting and financial perspective. They have been linked with several central defenders in recent months, but securing Disasi would be a statement move, showing their ambition to compete in both domestic and European competitions. Additionally, Disasi’s familiarity with top-tier football could make him an excellent replacement for Tah, adding both experience and leadership to Leverkusen’s backline.
A Fresh Start for Disasi in the Bundesliga?
For Disasi, a move to Leverkusen could offer the fresh start he needs. While the Bundesliga is a different challenge from the Premier League, it could offer him more regular playing time, which is crucial for his development. A move to Germany would also allow Disasi to continue competing at a high level and maintain his place in the French national team setup, particularly with key international tournaments on the horizon.
Leverkusen’s competitive ambitions, coupled with their attacking style of play, could suit Disasi’s strengths, making this potential move one to watch in the January window. Given the club’s strong position domestically and in Europe, a move to Leverkusen could be an excellent next step in his career, helping him get back on track after a frustrating season at Chelsea.
Juventus: Interest in Loan Deal
Alongside Bayer Leverkusen, Juventus is another club reportedly interested in signing Axel Disasi. The Serie A giants have been keeping an eye on the French defender, but their interest has been framed within the context of an initial loan deal. Juventus is currently navigating financial constraints and has been more cautious in their transfer dealings. Offering a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer allows the club to bring in a player like Disasi without committing to a large upfront fee.
However, this kind of arrangement might not appeal to Chelsea, who are likely to prefer a permanent deal if they are going to let Disasi leave. The situation is complicated further by the fact that Disasi is still considered a valuable asset by the club, despite his limited game time this season. Chelsea will need to weigh their options carefully before agreeing to any loan offer, particularly if they do not receive a compelling financial package.
Why Juventus Might Struggle to Secure Disasi
Juventus’ interest in a loan deal could work against them in the race for Disasi’s signature. While a loan could provide Juventus with the opportunity to assess his performance before committing to a permanent deal, Chelsea is more likely to want to recoup their investment by selling Disasi outright, especially given his frustrations and desire for more playing time.
If Juventus is serious about signing Disasi, they will likely have to negotiate a permanent deal or risk losing out to clubs like Bayer Leverkusen, who may be able to offer a more attractive package.
Enzo Maresca: Will Chelsea Let Disasi Leave?
Chelsea’s current manager Enzo Maresca has expressed his desire to keep every player in the squad, but he has also acknowledged that players struggling for minutes must decide whether they are happy continuing to fight for their future at the club. While Maresca has stressed the importance of squad depth and competition, the reality is that players like Axel Disasi may be seeking more consistent playing time.
Maresca’s stance on Disasi’s future will be crucial in determining whether the defender stays or leaves in January. If Chelsea can’t offer Disasi the regular football he desires, they may be willing to let him go, but they will likely only entertain permanent offers for the player. The January window will be pivotal for both the player and the club as they look to navigate this delicate situation.
Conclusion: Disasi’s Future Is Uncertain
As we approach the January transfer window, Axel Disasi’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain. His frustration with a lack of playing time, combined with interest from clubs like Bayer Leverkusen and Juventus, means that a move is a distinct possibility.
For Disasi, a fresh start at Leverkusen could provide the regular playing time he needs to continue his career development and maintain his international ambitions. However, with Juventus potentially offering a loan deal and Chelsea seeking a permanent transfer, the situation is far from straightforward.
Ultimately, Chelsea will need to decide whether to allow Disasi to leave, and if so, under what terms. With multiple suitors and a strong desire for more first-team action, Disasi’s next move could be the key to unlocking the next chapter in his career.
