“Advanced stages…”: Leeds close to securing deal for “throwback” France international

France's Youssouf Fofana, Ibrahima Konate, Kylian Mbappe and Axel Disasi during training. (REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne)

Leeds United head into the January transfer window in a far healthier position than earlier in the season.

After a stuttering start, Daniel Farke’s side have found rhythm at the right time, going seven matches unbeaten and picking up eye-catching results against Chelsea and Crystal Palace, alongside hard-earned draws with Liverpool and Manchester United.

While Leeds still sit 16th in the Premier League, the gap to the relegation zone has grown to eight points and performances are improving week by week.

Survival is far from guaranteed, though, and Farke is keen to add experience and depth this month to ensure his side do not slide back into trouble. One potential addition now appears to be nearing the finish line.

Leeds United are reportedly close to completing a deal for Chelsea defender Axel Disasi, with the move described as being in the “advanced stages”.

Former Everton and Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness told Football Insider that negotiations are progressing well and that a January agreement is highly likely before the deadline. Leeds’ interest has been known for some time, and sources now indicate that recent changes behind the scenes at Chelsea will not alter Disasi’s situation.

The 27-year-old has been frozen out at Stamford Bridge, having not featured in a competitive senior match since April 2025. Despite that, he continues to attract attention from clubs in both the Premier League and across Europe.

Leeds view Disasi as a strong fit for their defensive needs, particularly with Joe Rodon currently sidelined. Farke’s side are pushing for a loan deal until the end of the season, a solution that also suits Chelsea as they look to reduce their squad and wage bill.

Once labelled a “throwback” and “brilliant” centre-back by Jamie Carragher, Disasi has shown his pedigree at the highest level, earning five caps for France despite fierce competition in that position. While his Chelsea spell has stalled, his experience and physical presence could prove invaluable.

A fresh start now looks essential for Disasi — and Leeds may be the club ready to give him exactly that.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.