Axel DiSasi’s loan spell at West Ham revived a career that had stalled dramatically at Chelsea.
After being frozen out by Enzo Maresca as part of the Blues’ bomb squad during the first half of the 25/26 season, the France international completed his loan move to the London Stadium on transfer deadline day in February.
It turned out to be just the reset he needed.
Straight into Nuno Espirito Santo’s starting XI, DiSasi quickly established himself as one of West Ham’s most reliable defenders.
Since joining the club, he has played 17 games in all competitions, scoring one goal in the FA Cup and forming a strong partnership with central defender Konstantinos Mavropanos.
Although the Hammers were ultimately unable to avoid relegation from the Premier League, DiSasi’s own performances drew praise for his consistency, leadership and physical presence.
By the end of the season, many supporters regarded him as one of the club’s best performing players during a disappointing season.
These displays led West Ham to try to keep him permanently.
West Ham encourage Axel Disasi after agreeing transfer fee with Chelsea
Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips says the Hammers continue to hold talks with DiSasi despite being relegated to the Championship.
According to a report in Phillips, Chelsea have effectively agreed a transfer fee of around £25 million and have given West Ham permission to negotiate directly with the player.
Football Fancast Verdict | |
|---|---|
reliability | This information comes courtesy of Simon Phillips, who has established himself as one of the most well-connected journalists covering Chelsea. His reporting often focused on transfer negotiations and internal developments at the club, with many exclusive articles later supported by major media outlets. Although not all stories are completed, he is widely regarded as a very reliable source of Chelsea specific transfer news. |
finances | Transfer fees are not West Ham’s issue, with the club potentially looking to receive a cash injection from Daniel Krzetinski after selling Matheus Fernandes for £85m. Rather, it is important to convince DiSasi to be relegated to the second division. His Premier League salary will also be a key part of the negotiations if a deal goes ahead. |
insight | Disasi developed with Paris FC and Reims before moving to Monaco, where his performances led to recognition in France and a move to Chelsea. Standing 6ft 3in tall, he is known for his aerial strength, physical defense and leadership, and has consistently served as team captain throughout his senior career. |
impact | Disasi will give West Ham a proven defensive leader in a demanding Championship campaign. His experience, organization and aerial ability make him a perfect fit in this division, and his familiarity with Nuno’s methods means he could quickly become a key part of the defense and a key figure in the promotion push. |
The biggest hurdle will be convincing DiSasi that championship football is the right next step.
West Ham are reportedly looking to do just that by offering him a leadership role within Nuno’s squad.
With several senior players leaving the club following relegation, the club believes DiSasi could be one of the key players in the rebuild, rather than just an experienced signing.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are happy to allow him to leave permanently as they continue to downsize their squad ahead of the new season.
The fact that there is interest from other countries means West Ham cannot afford to think that a deal will be automatic.
Disasi remains an experienced French international and should be entering the prime of his career, with clubs across Europe as well as the Premier League monitoring his situation.
West Ham must push the boat out for Axel DiSasi
West Ham should do everything in their power to complete the transfer.
you scored
out of 20
Championship football is built on organization, aerial dominance and leadership, and DiSasi has all those qualities in abundance.
Nuno’s teams have traditionally been difficult to break down when built around commanding centre-backs, and DiSasi fits that profile perfectly.
He has already adapted to the dressing room, understands the demands of the manager and proved during his loan period that he can take responsibility even in difficult situations.
If West Ham want an immediate return to the Premier League, signing him on a permanent basis would be the best place to start.
