Axel Disasi is eagerly anticipating showcasing his skills at Stamford Bridge following his transfer from Monaco for an undisclosed sum.
Despite having two years left on his contract with Ligue 1 side, the 25-year-old has chosen to depart from Monaco to join Mauricio Pochettino’s team at Chelsea.
After signing a six-year agreement, Disasi expressed his admiration for the vibrant ambiance at his new club’s stadium.
He told Chelsea’s website: “I can’t wait to feel the energy of the fans.
“This is a very good stadium, one where you have a beautiful proximity to the fans. A typical English stadium, I think.
“The fervour of the fans in the Premier League, the atmosphere, the intensity of the games — it is something that excites me.
“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.”
Blue is the colour, welcome Axel Disasi! 🔵 pic.twitter.com/7b15qiAtGJ
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 4, 2023
His addition is expected to provide some solace amid Wesley Fofana’s ACL injury setback, which might keep the promising Chelsea player sidelined for a significant portion of the 2023-24 season.
Disasi made the move to Monaco from Reims in August 2020, and his impressive performances at the Stade Louis II led to his selection as Presnel Kimpembe’s replacement in France’s 2022 World Cup squad.
Playing as a right-sided center-back, he participated in three matches in Qatar, including one appearance off the bench in the final against Argentina. This made him the first French player to debut at a World Cup since 1966.
Chelsea’s 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 team-mates in the days ahead.”
Disasi will play alongside a familiar face at the Blues in Benoit Badisahile, who joined the West London outfit from Monaco last January.