Crystal Palace have intensified their pursuit of Chelsea defender Axel Disasi, with reports indicating the Eagles have submitted a formal loan offer that includes an obligation to buy.
Palace Push Hard to Secure Disasi from Chelsea
The 28-year-old French centre-back has emerged as Palace’s priority target as they seek to fill the void left by Maxence Lacroix, who completed a £52 million move to Stamford Bridge earlier this summer.
According to RMC Sport’s Fabrice Hawkins, negotiations between the two London clubs are ongoing.
Palace view Disasi as the ideal successor to Lacroix, with his Premier League experience, physical presence, and aerial dominance making him a perfect fit for Pierre Sage’s defensive setup.
The French international spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham United, making 14 Premier League appearances.
He remains under contract at Chelsea until 2029 after joining from Monaco for £38.5 million in 2023.
Chelsea prefer a permanent sale and have set a £25 million price tag for the defender.
However, Palace’s proposed loan with an obligation to buy offers a structured compromise that guarantees Chelsea a permanent fee while allowing the Eagles to manage their spending under UEFA’s Squad Cost Ratio regulations.
Crucially, Palace officials have already held a key meeting with Disasi’s representatives, with progress being made on personal terms.
For Disasi, a move across London would offer a valuable career reset and the prospect of regular first-team football after falling out of favour under new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso.
The defender has not reported for pre-season training as the club seeks to facilitate his departure.
Palace face competition for Disasi’s signature, with West Ham also interested after his encouraging loan spell at the London Stadium.
However, it is believed Disasi is not keen on a return to the Hammers, who are now preparing for Championship football. Several Italian clubs are also monitoring the defender’s situation.
The Eagles have previously explored other options, including Augsburg’s Chrislain Matsima, though a deal collapsed last week. They also retain interest in Brest teenager Raphael Le Guen.
With Palace preparing for their Europa League debut and needing to replace their departed defensive stalwart, securing Disasi would represent a significant statement of intent.
Talks are expected to reach a decisive stage in the coming days.
