
EPL Index
·21. August 2025
Bournemouth have ‘Opened Talks’ to Sign Chelsea Defender

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·21. August 2025
Football Insider have revealed that Chelsea defender Axel Disasi could be on his way to the south coast as Bournemouth step up efforts to strengthen their backline. Negotiations are already underway between the two clubs for a deal that would initially take the Frenchman on loan, with an option to buy included.
According to the report, “Axel Disasi could be on his way out of Chelsea soon as Bournemouth begin talks over a move for his services in a loan-to-buy deal.”
Disasi’s time at Chelsea has been turbulent since his £38.5million arrival from Monaco in 2023. Despite racking up 61 appearances, he has struggled to convince under multiple managers. Enzo Maresca’s arrival has further limited his role, particularly following the signing of Jorrel Hato this summer.
Photo: IMAGO
The centre-back was left out of Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad and failed to make the bench in their Premier League opener against Crystal Palace. His loan to Aston Villa in January also failed to reignite his career, with Villa fans quick to call for his return to Stamford Bridge after a series of underwhelming displays.
Andoni Iraola’s squad are in need of defensive reinforcements after high-profile departures. Dean Huijsen returned to Real Madrid, while Illia Zabarnyi joined PSG, leaving the Cherries with fewer experienced centre-back options.
New signing Bafode Diakite from Lille was thrown straight into the starting XI alongside Marcos Senesi in Bournemouth’s opening match of the campaign against Liverpool, leaving the inexperienced James Hill as the only defensive cover on the bench.
That lack of depth has prompted the club to act. Journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported via X that Bournemouth have started “club-to-club talks” with Chelsea, while personal terms are also being discussed with Disasi.
photo: IMAGO
Bournemouth will need to move quickly. L’Equipe have reported that Juventus, Newcastle and Villarreal are also interested in the French defender, adding pressure as the transfer window nears its close.
Despite this, Bournemouth can point to their track record of developing centre-backs. Both Huijsen and Zabarnyi secured moves to European heavyweights after thriving under Iraola. That reputation could help persuade Disasi that the Vitality Stadium is the right environment to rebuild his career.
For Bournemouth, the potential signing of Axel Disasi feels like a calculated risk worth taking. On one hand, his time at Chelsea has been disappointing, and his loan spell at Aston Villa did little to improve his reputation. On the other hand, his pedigree, experience and profile as a physically imposing centre-back make him exactly the kind of player Bournemouth need.
The departures of Huijsen and Zabarnyi have left a glaring hole in the squad. Bafode Diakite has potential but is still adjusting, and Marcos Senesi cannot be expected to carry the entire burden of leadership in defence. Disasi’s arrival, even on loan, would provide much-needed stability and competition for places.
Supporters will also view this as an opportunity for both player and club. Disasi needs a platform to rebuild his confidence and reputation, while Bournemouth need a proven name to strengthen their Premier League survival prospects. With Juventus and Newcastle circling, the urgency is clear. Fans will hope the club can act decisively and land a defender who, under Iraola’s guidance, could rediscover the form that once convinced Chelsea to pay nearly £40 million.
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