Chelsea are interested in signing Monaco defender Axel Disasi, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

Writing on his Substack page, Phillips claims the Blues “really like” the Frenchman, who is being considered as a target to strengthen the centre of defence following the serious injury sustained by Wesley Fofana.

However, Disasi is also being pursued by other Premier League clubs. Earlier this week, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that both Manchester United and Newcastle had held talks with the player’s representatives:

Newcastle and Man United remain in talks for Axel Disasi deal, as reported two weeks ago. ⤵️🇫🇷 https://t.co/6AVPlpsp4g

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 17, 2023

Chelsea may have an advantage in negotiations

It is believed that neither United nor Newcastle are in a position to make a bid for Disasi due to Financial Fairplay rules. Erik ten Hag’s side have already gone beyond their transfer budget so sign both Mason Mount and Andre Onana, and they will need to recoup funds from player sales.

Newcastle are also in a very tight spot after splashing out £60m on Sandro Tonali. They are being forced to sell Allan Saint-Maximun so they can balance books and sign other players.

With Monaco said to be holding out for around €5om (£43m), Chelsea are the team best placed to make a bid, after raising money by offloading the likes of Mount, Kai Havertz and Mateo Kovacic in recent weeks.

What do fans need to know about Disasi?

The centre-half is 25 years of age, having joined Monaco from Stade de Reims nearly three years ago. Whilst he is most comfortable playing in the middle of defence, he can also be deployed at right-back when required.

In terms of his international career, Disasi made his debut at the 2022 World Cup, playing his first match against Tunisia in the third group game. He was also handed three other brief cameo appearances from the bench during the tournament.