West Ham handed 'big boost' in race to sign Axel Disasi
West Ham United and Crystal Palace have been handed a boost in the race to sign Chelsea star Axel Disasi in the summer transfer window.
The 28-year-old is widely expected to leave Chelsea permanently following his impressive short-term loan spell at the London Stadium at the end of last season.
He is not part of Xabi Alonso's plans for the new season, and has attracted interest from a number of clubs across Europe, but two of his suitors have received a boost.
Former West Ham scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Diasasi wants to stay in London if possible, moving the needle in favour of the Hammers and Crystal Palace.
Nuno Espirito Santo is keen to re-sign the defender after he made himself a key part of his side last season, despite their relegation to the Championship.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are believed to have held talks over a deal for Disasi following Maxence Lacroix's move to Chelsea as they seek a senior replacement for their star man.
Could West Ham make a move to re-sign Axel Disasi?
Brown told Football Insider on 28 July that West Ham are aiming to re-sign Disasi following his loan spell last season, with optimistic plans to lure him back to East London.
Despite initial expectations that a deal would be off following their relegation, the Hammers believe they could convince him with regular minutes and promises of promotion.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace can offer him Europa League football and Premier League minutes, with his desire to remain in London key for both clubs.
"It will be interesting to see what happens with Disasi," Brown told Football Insider.
"From what I've heard, I think he wants to stay in London, which a lot of players do once they've been there for a while, they like the lifestyle that comes with it.
"So that would be a big boost to somebody like West Ham or Crystal Palace, because they can offer something these other clubs can't.
"We obviously do expect him to leave Chelsea, and it's little decisions like that which can often swing a transfer one way or another.
"If that's right and he does want to stay in London, then it doesn't matter which clubs in Europe have come calling or are looking at him, these two will have an advantage."
Which other clubs are interested in Disasi?
West Ham and Crystal Palace are far from the only clubs battling it out to sign Disasi, with a number of clubs in the Premier League and across Europe keen.
The likes of Leeds United and Everton are among the Premier League clubs to have shown an interest, while Italian giants including Roma and AC Milan are also in the race.
Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider last month that Coventry City have eyed a potential move for Disasi following their promotion to the Premier League.
There is admiration following his performances for West Ham last season, where he shored up their defensive line during the battle against relegation.
Coventry may also have received a boost in their pursuit, with Frank Lampard's strong links to Chelsea set to be utilised should they step up their efforts to sign Disasi.