(Credit: Imago)

Sunderland 'ready to sign Axel Disasi' as details of Chelsea exit revealed

Alex is a lifelong Sunderland supporter who's been reporting on Mackem News since April 2025. Indeed, he started working for Breaking Media in April and has since graduated from St Mary's University as a NCTJ Gold Standard-accredited journalist, having completed his Master's degree in Sports Journalism. Alex previously worked for Football League World and has featured on the Roker Report, providing his opinion on all things Sunderland. While getting to the games is tricky, given his job, one of the highlights of his life was watching (and crying) as the Black Cats defeated Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium last season.

Published on:

25 Jun 2025, 9:00 am

Sunderland are eyeing different player profiles this summer after securing their long-awaited return to the Premier League.

Gone are the days of careful and considered low spending, as the Black Cats must compete with England's best clubs.

Sunderland are looking at all areas with another centre-back wanted to challenge Dan Ballard and Luke O'Nien for a starting berth.

With Chris Mepham returning to AFC Bournemouth, the North East club have been linked with a move for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi.

Mepham played a pivotal role in Sunderland's promotion (Credit: Imago)

Disasi has Chelsea exit path amid Sunderland interest

Sunderland have two injury-prone centre-backs in Ballard and O'Nien, who is still recovering from his Wembley injury.

That means that Regis Le Bris' side will need to add reinforcements in the transfer window as the Wearsiders strive to bolster the spine of their team.

Millwall defender Japhet Tanganga is one of several targets being considered at the Stadium of Light.

However, now it has been revealed that Sunderland are keeping tabs on Disasi, according to SportsBoom (25 June).

They state that wages are thought to be a stumbling block for any deal, but a loan move could still work.

Axel Disasi's 2024/25 Premier League statistics	Total
Appearances (starts)	13 (9)
Goals	1
Clean sheets	2
Tackles per game	1.2
Clearances	2.2
Accurate passes	37.7 (90%)

Disasi made Premier League appearances for Villa and Chelsea (Sofascore)

Furthermore, they claim that Burnley are also tracking the 27-year-old, while Villa have expressed an interest in re-signing him.

Disasi is likely to leave the Stamford Bridge outfit this summer after being left out of Enzo Maresca's squad for the FIFA Club World Cup.

The centre-back made 10 appearances during his short-term loan with the Villans, with three of those coming in the Champions League.

Disasi played European football for Villa last season (Credit: Imago)

Should the Black Cats sign Disasi?

While Disasi is a big name, several factors must be considered for the Wearsiders.

Yes, the centre-back has played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, with spells at Chelsea, Villa, and AS Monaco.

However, his time in England has been marred by some costly mistakes.

Moreover, the Frenchman is bound to be on substantial wages, and Sunderland would have to cover some, if not most, of those for a loan deal.

On the other hand, he does possess experience at the highest level, with five France caps to his name.

There is plenty to ponder about the potential deal, but it is a sign of intention at the Stadium of Light.

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Axel Disasi