Talks underway: Newcastle have now “begun discussions” to sign £25.8m “leader”

Newcastle United have intensified their summer transfer efforts and have opened talks with a Premier League defender who has been described as a natural leader.

With multiple positions under review for reinforcement, including the addition of a new goalkeeper and attacking winger, the Magpies have placed strong emphasis on strengthening their defensive core, particularly at centre-back.

The urgency in this area stems from a need to inject freshness and long-term quality, especially as current stalwarts like Fabian Schar and Dan Burn enter the later stages of their careers.

Marc Guehi has emerged as a top target to bolster Eddie Howe’s backline, with reports continually linking the Crystal Palace and England centre-back to a £70 million switch to St James’ Park.

Guehi is regarded as a composed and athletic defender, but his high valuation has prompted Newcastle to explore more affordable alternatives who could still provide Premier League pedigree and leadership qualities.

One of those alternatives is Chelsea’s Axel Disasi, whose future at Stamford Bridge appears increasingly uncertain.

According to sources close to the club, Newcastle have already begun initial discussions over a move for Disasi.

The interest from the Tyneside outfit is described as particularly strong, and Chelsea are reportedly open to selling the French international for a fee in the region of £25.8 million.

This potential deal would offer significant savings compared to Guehi, though it would not come without some risk, given Disasi’s fluctuating form in recent seasons.

Disasi joined Chelsea with high expectations but failed to cement a consistent starting role under multiple managers.

Despite this, he showcased moments of defensive brilliance, especially during his loan spell at Aston Villa, where he demonstrated his strength, composure, and reading of the game.

While he didn’t find the back of the net, his contributions in defensive transitions and build-up play stood out.

Below is a summary of Axel Disasi’s 2024/25 Premier League stats during his time at Aston Villa:

Though his sample size last season was limited, Disasi’s passing accuracy and ability to clear danger were highlights. At 27, he still has several years ahead of him and offers valuable top-flight experience, including five international caps for France.

Earning a call-up to a national team stacked with elite defensive talents such as William Saliba, Ibrahima Konate, and Dayot Upamecano speaks volumes about his potential and pedigree.

He has also earned praise from respected football voices. Journalist Nizaar Kinsella once referred to Disasi as a “leader,” a quality Newcastle could use both on and off the pitch.

Jamie Carragher, following Disasi’s outstanding display against Manchester City, remarked that it was the best defensive performance he had seen that season from any centre-back.

Carragher emphasized how Disasi had managed to contain one of the world’s most dangerous forwards and labelled him the best player on the pitch during that game, though the pundit admitted he hadn’t said it on air.

Despite his qualities, Disasi’s situation at Chelsea remains bleak. The club has given him an “exit ticket” and has no plans to integrate him into their long-term squad, especially after limited appearances last term and the club’s focus on younger talents. That leaves the door wide open for Newcastle to capitalise.

Should the Magpies move decisively, they could secure a proven Premier League centre-back at a significantly lower cost than other top targets.

While Disasi may not offer the same long-term ceiling as a player like Guehi, his experience, leadership, and immediate readiness make him an appealing candidate for a side seeking squad depth, tactical versatility, and Champions League-level composure.

If Newcastle can negotiate favorable terms and integrate him effectively into Howe’s system, Disasi might just prove to be a shrewd piece of business—balancing affordability with the high expectations that now surround a club aiming to solidify its place among the Premier League’s elite.