Aston Villa sign Axel Disasi on loan from Chelsea

The French defender joins Villa on loan as Unai Emery strengthens his squad.

Axel Disasi of Chelsea trains at Chelsea Training Ground in Cobham, England, on January 10, 2025. Photo by Darren Walsh/Getty Images

By Yuni Utomo and Randy Ahmad

Aston Villa have secured the signing of French centre-back Axel Disasi on loan from Chelsea for the remainder of the season, both clubs confirmed on Tuesday. The deal, which does not include an obligation to buy, will see Villa cover Disasi’s wages while paying a reported loan fee of around £5 million ($6.21 million), according to Sky Sports.

Disasi, 26, joined Chelsea from AS Monaco in the summer of 2023 and has since made 61 appearances for the club. Despite his regular presence in Chelsea’s defense, he has been allowed to leave on loan as part of the club’s squad adjustments during the winter transfer window.

The French international, who has earned five caps for his national team since making his debut at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, brings experience and versatility to Villa’s backline. His arrival comes at a crucial time as manager Unai Emery looks to bolster his squad amid a push for European qualification.

Villa’s third loan signing of the window

Axel Disasi becomes Aston Villa’s third loan acquisition of the winter transfer window, following the arrivals of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United and Marco Asensio from Paris Saint-Germain. The club has been active in the market, reinforcing key areas as they aim to maintain their impressive domestic form.

With Rashford adding firepower to the attack and Asensio providing creativity in midfield, Disasi’s defensive stability is expected to further strengthen Villa’s squad depth. Emery has prioritized reinforcements in multiple positions as Villa continue their strong run in the Premier League and prepare for the latter stages of European competition.

Why Aston Villa moved for Disasi

Aston Villa’s decision to bring in Disasi on loan reflects their need for defensive reinforcements amid concerns over squad depth. Injuries and fixture congestion have placed added pressure on Villa’s current defensive options, prompting Emery to seek additional cover.

Disasi’s ability to play both as a centre-back and right-back makes him a valuable addition. His physical presence, aerial ability, and composure on the ball align with Emery’s tactical approach, making him a strong candidate for regular minutes in Villa’s defensive setup.

While the loan deal does not include a purchase clause, Disasi’s performances at Villa Park could influence future discussions about a permanent move, depending on Chelsea’s long-term squad plans.

Chelsea’s squad reshuffle continues

For Chelsea, Disasi’s departure comes as part of a broader strategy to manage their squad following a busy transfer period over the past two seasons. The club has made significant investments in young talent and continues to adjust its roster to maintain squad balance and financial sustainability.

Disasi was a regular fixture in Chelsea’s starting lineup under Mauricio Pochettino, but with defensive competition from players like Levi Colwill, Benoît Badiashile, and Wesley Fofana, the club has opted to allow him to leave on a temporary basis.

His loan exit also reflects Chelsea’s approach of trimming the squad while maintaining financial flexibility, as the club continues to comply with Premier League and UEFA financial regulations.

Villa’s ambitions for the remainder of the season

Aston Villa’s activity in the transfer window signals their intent to compete at the highest level. Currently battling for a top-four spot in the Premier League and looking to make an impact in European competition, Emery’s side is building a squad capable of sustaining success in multiple competitions.

Disasi’s arrival gives Villa a stronger defensive foundation, allowing them to rotate key players while maintaining stability at the back. His experience in both Ligue 1 and the Premier League ensures he can adapt quickly to the demands of English football, making him a valuable short-term solution for Emery’s plans.

As the second half of the season unfolds, Villa fans will be eager to see how their new signings integrate into the squad. With Disasi reinforcing the defense, Rashford boosting the attack, and Asensio adding depth in midfield, Villa’s prospects for a strong finish to the campaign look increasingly promising.