Monaco star Axel Disasi was linked to Arsenal, Man Utd and Chelsea (Picture: Getty)
Arsenal pulled out of the race to sign Chelsea-bound Axel Disasi because they were reluctant to meet Monaco’s asking price, according to reports.
Chelsea are close to securing the signing of 25-year-old France international defender Disasi after agreeing a deal in principle worth €45m (£38m).
The Gunners and Manchester United had both reportedly been looking at Disasi before news broke of Chelsea’s breakthrough.
Arsenal have already signed a new defender this summer, bringing in Jurrien Timber from Ajax.
United, meanwhile, are considering whether or not to re-sign veteran centre-back Jonny Evans after his impressive performances in pre-season on a short-term deal.
Chelsea were forced into the transfer market for a centre-back after another injury to Wesley Fofana – who is expected to be out for a meaningful period of time with a knee problem.
Disasi has knocked up four caps for France and was part of the 2022 World Cup squad, playing in the final as the French lost to Argentina.
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The 25-year-old mad his professional debut for Paris FC, moved on to Reims and has been at Monaco since 2020, being a regular in the team for the last three seasons, scoring 10 goals in 129 games across all competitions.
Chelsea are hoping for an improvement in 2023-24 after a dismal campaign last term saw them finish 12th in the Premier League without a trophy.
Former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has come in as head coach and the Blues get their season started on August 13 as they host Liverpool.
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Man Utd were also looking at him…
