According to Daily Mail, Arsenal have been in contact with Reims regarding the potential transfer of Axel Disasi. The centre-back has emerged as the latest target for Mikel Arteta as he looks to bolster his defensive options in the summer. The Gunners have already discussed a potential deal worth around £15 million, with the player’s existing contract at Reims expiring at the end of the campaign.
Axel Disasi’s success this season
Disasi has emerged as one of the best performing defenders in Ligue 1 this season. A product of the Paris FC youth academy, the defender has enjoyed a breakout campaign, having already featured in 27 league games so far.
Disasi’s contributions in the backline have already helped Reims maintain an outstanding defensive record this season. In fact, the French club has conceded only 21 goals so far, a tally only bettered by none other than Real Madrid in Europe’s top five leagues. Their impressive defensive performances have also helped them compete for a place in the UEFA Champions League next season.
Despite his lack of experience at the highest level of football, he has managed to build a formidable defensive partnership with veteran star Yunis Abdelhamid. Therefore, the young defender certainly deserves a lot of praise.
What can he bring to the table?
Disasi is primarily known for his tall 1.90m frame that gives him a considerable advantage in the air. He has notably won 76 headed duels this season with a success rate of 58%. But, it isn’t his only asset as the Frenchman is equally known for his defensive commitment and discipline.
Indeed, Disasi’s tally of one interception, 3.6 clearances and 1.6 tackles per game with a success rate of 75% is indicative of his effectiveness in the defensive third. Meanwhile, his imposing frame also makes him a threat from set-pieces, with the defender attempting seven headers on goal this season.
More importantly, however, Disasi is a decent passer of the ball. He has attained a pass completion rate of 84%, which is an incredible number given Reims’ style of play.
Why Arsenal must sign Disasi
The ongoing Coronavirus outbreak, combined with last summer’s spending spree, has put Arsenal in a problematic situation, as far as the financial structure of the club is concerned. At the same time, they are also in need of defensive reinforcements this summer, thus forcing Arteta to search for cost-effective option on the transfer market.
Disasi fits the bill perfectly. As mentioned earlier, the Reims starlet will be available for just £15 million and given his performances at Ligue 1 this campaign, the defender certainly has the maturity to potentially thrive in the Premier League. Hence, he and William Saliba could provide Arteta with some much-needed depth in the defensive department next season as the Gunners look to usher in a new era at the Emirates.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
