West Ham United are closing in on their first deal of Deadline Day after Axel Disasi booked a medical ahead of a proposed loan move from Chelsea.
The French defender is expected to undergo checks on the morning of Deadline Day in London, as the Hammers look to strengthen their defence before the transfer window shuts.
The move matters because West Ham have actively searched for a centre-back all month, while Disasi needs regular football after falling out of favour at Stamford Bridge.
What is happening with Axel Disasi on Deadline Day?
West Ham have scheduled a medical for Axel Disasi as part of a straight six-month loan deal from Chelsea. The transfer would run until the end of the current season, with no obligation to buy understood at this stage.
Chelsea initially preferred a permanent sale, but sources close to the deal suggest the London club accept that they may need to compromise. With limited time left in the window, a loan offers a quick solution for all parties.
“West Ham are hoping to close a deal to sign the Frenchman on a six-month loan,” according to reports.
Why has Axel Disasi been frozen out at Chelsea?
Disasi has struggled for consistent minutes this season despite training with the Chelsea first team at various points. He has slipped down the pecking order following tactical changes and increased competition in defence.
West Ham working on a deadline day deal for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi.⚒️ pic.twitter.com/dVmaw6QDWc
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) February 2, 2026
Chelsea’s focus on younger profiles and long-term planning has left the 26-year-old short of match action. For a player pushing to stay relevant at the international level, regular Premier League football has become essential.
Why does West Ham need a centre-back right now?
West Ham’s need is immediate. The club lost their domestic loan slot defender, Igor Julio, who Brighton recalled last week. That decision left a gap in David Moyes’ squad at a key point in the season.
Julio joined West Ham last summer after rejecting Crystal Palace, believing he would play more regularly at the London Stadium.
Instead, he made just one Premier League start, prompting West Ham to look elsewhere. Disasi now appears to be the chosen replacement.
How does Disasi compare to West Ham’s other targets?
West Ham has also explored permanent options. One notable name is Taylor Harwood-Bellis of Southampton. However, talks stalled after the Hammers submitted a bid worth around 50% of Southampton’s valuation for the 24-year-old defender.
Centre-back options considered by West Ham
| Player | Club | Deal Type | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Axel Disasi | Chelsea | Loan (6 months) | Medical booked |
| Taylor Harwood-Bellis | Southampton | Permanent | Bid rejected |
| Igor Julio | Brighton | Loan | Recalled |
The loan move for Disasi offers a faster and cheaper fix, especially under Financial Fair Play pressure.
What does this move mean for Axel Disasi?
A move to West Ham would give Axel Disasi a clear chance to reset his season. The Hammers can offer regular Premier League starts and a defined role in defence, something he has lacked at Chelsea.
For Disasi, the loan is less about long-term security and more about match fitness, form, and visibility.
What does this mean for the UK public and fans?
For West Ham supporters, this deal signals urgency and intent on Deadline Day. For Chelsea fans, it reflects a squad still in transition.
For the wider Premier League audience, it highlights how loans remain a vital tool for clubs navigating tight budgets and squad limits.
