Leeds United are reportedly ready to “go all out” to win the race for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi, as Daniel Farke looks to secure the club’s Premier League status.
Following West Ham’s recent victory over Sunderland, Leeds find themselves just five points above the relegation zone. With defensive injuries mounting, the hierarchy at Elland Road views the experienced Frenchman as the ideal reinforcement to maintain their top-flight standing, alongside ongoing efforts to sign Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen.
The Chelsea Exile
Despite his pedigree as a Champions League regular, the 26-year-old finds himself trapped in Chelsea’s infamous “bomb squad.” His career has stalled significantly over the last 18 months:
- The Peaking Order: Disasi is currently buried behind at least seven other center-backs at Stamford Bridge, including Levi Colwill and Benoit Badiashile.
- Limited Minutes: Since joining in 2023, he has made only 17 appearances for the Blues. Even a loan spell at Aston Villa proved unproductive, yielding just 10 outings under Unai Emery.
- A “Now or Never” Move: With nearly a year since his last Premier League appearance, the £60,000-a-week defender is reportedly desperate for a fresh start before his career regresses further.
Why Disasi Fits the New Leeds System
The move is being hailed as a potential masterstroke due to Leeds’ recent tactical evolution. Since switching to a three-back formation in December, the Whites have undergone a stunning transformation:
- Elite Form: Leeds have lost just once in their last nine games, securing victories over Chelsea and Crystal Palace, while holding Liverpool to two draws.
- Defensive Solidity: The backline has conceded only 11 goals during this nine-game stretch.
- Physical Attributes: Disasi’s aerial dominance and physicality are seen as the perfect fit for this resilient, “defensive-clad” system.
Leeds’ Recent Resurgence (9-Game Snapshot)
| Opponent | Result | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | Win | Massive upset in the new system. |
| Crystal Palace | Win | Beating a direct rival for Disasi’s signature. |
| Liverpool | Draw (x2) | Proved the back three can hold elite attacks. |
| Sunderland/Brentford | Draw | Solid |
Leeds face stiff competition from Crystal Palace, but the board is reportedly determined to finalize this “statement signing” to ensure Farke has the tools to keep the club up.
