Axel Disasi is set to return to Chelsea following West Ham United’s relegation from the Premier League, according to Foot Mercato. The French defender joined West Ham on loan during the January transfer window after limited opportunities at Chelsea, quickly establishing himself as a key player under then-manager Nuno Espírito Santo.
Despite Espírito Santo’s desire to retain Disasi, West Ham’s drop to the Championship alters the situation, triggering the end of his loan spell. Disasi initially signed for Chelsea in August 2023 from Monaco for a reported fee of £38.8 million, but struggled to secure a consistent starting position under previous managers.
Though he will return to Stamford Bridge, a permanent departure from Chelsea is considered likely. Foot Mercato reports that several clubs have already expressed interest in the 25-year-old, potentially offering him a more prominent role elsewhere in the Premier League or even a move to Major League Soccer.
Disasi was a vice-champion of the world with France in 2022, but has only earned eight caps for his country. His performances for West Ham demonstrated his defensive reliability, offering a stark contrast to his limited impact at Chelsea. The defender made 19 appearances for the Hammers, becoming a regular fixture in the starting eleven.
Chelsea are currently undergoing a period of transition under new ownership, and may be open to selling players to reshape the squad. Disasi's return presents a potential opportunity for the club to recoup some of the fee they initially paid to Monaco, while also allowing the player to find a club where he can consistently feature.
