Chelsea CONFIRM £39million Axel Disasi transfer with Monaco defender set to step straight into first team
CHELSEA have completed the £39million signing of Monaco defender Axel Disasi on a long-term deal.
The centre-back becomes Mauricio Pochettino's sixth senior summer signing.
And he will be hoping to make his debut in next week's season opener against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.
Disasi, 25, is a no-nonsense centre-back who helped France reach the World Cup final in December.
His aerial ability saw him score 10 goals in 129 games for Monaco.
And Chelsea pounced for Disasi after losing compatriot Wesley Fofana to a potential second-ending ACL injury.
His former Monaco defensive partner Benoit Badiashile is also struggling for fitness.
And with Trevoh Chalobah up for sale, the Blues moved quickly to see off transfer interest from Manchester United, Arsenal and Newcastle.
Disasi is now set to link up with his new Chelsea teammates at Cobham.
But it remains to be seen if he starts against Liverpool, with Thiago Silva likely to partner Levi Colwill in a back four.
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Co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: "Axel has showcased his quality over several seasons in France and that has deservedly led to recognition on the international stage.
"He is ready to take the next step in his career and we are delighted that will be with Chelsea.
"We welcome him to the club and look forward to him joining up with Mauricio Pochettino and his new teammates in the days ahead."
Disasi also expressed his desire to hit the ground running, saying: "It’s something I’ve been waiting for.
"I am so happy to be here, at this big club. I am really proud to be able to be a part of this great family, and I hope to achieve very big things here.
"To win titles. I will do everything I can to achieve those objectives. I am very ambitious.
"I can’t wait to feel the energy of the fans,’ he continues, now looking out at the pitch from high up in the West Stand. Another perspective to take in.
"This is a very good stadium, one where you have a beautiful proximity to the fans. A typical English stadium, I think.
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"The fervour of the fans in the Premier League, the atmosphere, the intensity of the games: it is something that excites me."
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