Chelsea defender Axel Disasi is at the center of a growing transfer saga, with several clubs across Europe eyeing his services. Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers have emerged as strong suitors for the 26-year-old Frenchman, who joined Chelsea from AS Monaco for £38.8 million in 2023. Disasi, however, has made it clear that he is leaning towards a move to Villa Park, even as Italian and Premier League clubs continue to show interest. With his role at Stamford Bridge becoming increasingly limited, a loan move to Villa could provide the ideal opportunity for him to revive his career.
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Disasi’s Struggles at Chelsea
Since his arrival in West London, Axel Disasi has struggled to secure a regular spot in Chelsea’s starting XI. Under manager Enzo Maresca, the French centre-back has often been used in a variety of roles, including an experimental stint at right-back. However, this position has not yielded the desired results. Despite his versatility, Disasi’s performances have not convinced Maresca enough to make him a key figure in Chelsea’s defensive lineup.
His lack of minutes on the pitch this season is telling, as he has only appeared in six Premier League matches—starting four times and coming on as a substitute in two others. Disasi’s situation at Chelsea has been compounded by the recall of Trevoh Chalobah, who has been preferred over him in recent matches. The Englishman’s return from a season-long loan at Crystal Palace has shifted the pecking order in Chelsea’s defense, and Disasi now finds himself lower down the list.
Aston Villa’s Pursuit and Disasi’s Preference
Aston Villa have identified Disasi as a key target in their quest to strengthen their defense. With the club chasing European football and grappling with injury setbacks, the acquisition of a player of Disasi’s caliber would provide a significant boost. Villa’s manager, Unai Emery, is reportedly keen on bringing in the Chelsea defender, and the player himself has reportedly given his consent to a move.
According to sources close to the player, “Disasi said yes to Aston Villa and he’s not considering other options despite Italian and PL clubs linked.” This statement underscores Disasi’s desire to join Villa, where he believes he can get regular playing time and contribute to a team pushing for Champions League football. Should the move materialize, it is expected to be a loan deal without any obligation to buy, giving Villa the flexibility to assess the player before making a long-term commitment.
Loan Deal: A Chance for Disasi to Rebuild
A loan move to Villa Park would offer Disasi the chance to play Premier League football, which he has been unable to do consistently at Chelsea. Villa’s strong aspirations for the upcoming seasons provide an exciting opportunity for the Frenchman to showcase his abilities in a high-pressure environment. The loan agreement, which could run until the summer, would also allow Villa to assess Disasi’s performances before deciding on a potential permanent transfer.
At Villa, Disasi would likely slot into a defense that has been weakened by injuries. With regular playing time at stake, the move represents an ideal scenario for the defender to regain his form and make a statement to his parent club, Chelsea. This opportunity could be pivotal in reviving Disasi’s career, which has hit a roadblock at Stamford Bridge.
Disasi’s Solid Defensive Contributions Despite Limited Minutes
While Axel Disasi’s appearances for Chelsea have been limited this season, he has still managed to make a positive impact when called upon. Notably, he scored in Chelsea’s resounding 5-1 victory over Southampton in December, proving his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch. This goal, albeit in a game where Chelsea dominated, highlighted his potential as a threat in the opposition box.
Disasi’s defensive qualities also remain intact. He is known for his physicality, aerial ability, and composure in key moments. While his role at Chelsea has been reduced, these traits could prove to be invaluable for Villa, who are hoping to solidify their defense as they aim for European qualification. If Disasi continues to display these qualities at Villa, he could play a key role in their ambitions moving forward.
The Road Ahead for Disasi and Chelsea
With Axel Disasi now openly leaning toward a move to Aston Villa, Chelsea must carefully consider their options. A loan move without an obligation to buy would provide the Blues with an opportunity to assess their defensive options and perhaps look for a more permanent solution in the summer. For Disasi, the next few months will be crucial in determining his future. A successful loan spell could reinvigorate his career, whether he stays at Villa or returns to Chelsea.
As the January transfer window draws to a close, it remains to be seen whether the move to Villa Park will be finalized. However, one thing is clear: Axel Disasi is eager for a fresh start, and Aston Villa appears to be the destination where he hopes to reignite his Premier League journey.
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FAQs
Why is Axel Disasi considering a move to Aston Villa?
Axel Disasi is seeking regular playing time, which has been limited at Chelsea. Aston Villa offers a chance for him to play in the Premier League, especially with the club dealing with injury setbacks.
What is the status of Axel Disasi’s current role at Chelsea?
Disasi has fallen down the pecking order at Chelsea, playing in just six Premier League matches this season, with his opportunities limited due to the return of Trevoh Chalobah.
Will Axel Disasi’s move to Aston Villa be permanent or on loan?
Disasi’s transfer to Aston Villa is expected to be a loan deal, with no obligation to buy, providing him a chance to prove himself at Villa Park until the summer.
How has Axel Disasi performed at Chelsea despite limited appearances?
Disasi has contributed defensively and scored a goal in Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Southampton, showcasing his ability to impact the game even with minimal minutes.