Juventus have enquired about the availability of Chelsea centre-back Axel Disasi in January, according to a report.
The 26-year-old joined Chelsea from Ligue 1 outfit Monaco in the summer of 2023 for a fee of £38.8m and became a regular starter under Mauricio Pochettino.
Disasi featured in 44 matches across all competitions last season, helping Chelsea achieve a top-six finish and secure a return to European football.
However, after missing pre-season this term, things have taken a different turn for the Frenchman under Enzo Maresca, as he has found regular playing time hard to come by.
The defender has featured in all six of the Blues' Conference League games this season but received only his third Premier League start of the campaign last weekend against Everton.
Axel Disasi celebrates scoring for Chelsea on November 7, 2024© Imago
Juventus enquire about Disasi availability
A lack of playing time has seen Disasi linked to several clubs in Europe in recent weeks, and according to Calciomercato, Juventus are the latest to signal their interest in his services.
The report reveals that the Serie A giants are keen to understand the central defender's availability and requirements to finalise a deal in January.
Sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli has repeatedly stated that the Bianconeri plan to make mid-season investments to strengthen their defensive line after both Gleison Bremer and Juan Cabal were ruled out for the next six months with ACL injuries.
While Feyenoord's David Hancko and Benfica's Antonio Silva remain the club's top targets, it is understood that Disasi is considered as a more cost-effective alternative.
However, a move to Juventus for the Frenchman is far from a certainty, given that Maresca has to manage other defensive issues, such as the injuries to both Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile.
Benfica's Tomas Araujo on January 24, 2024© Imago
Chelsea eyeing defensive reinforcements for January
Given Chelsea's injury concerns and the possibility that the likes of Ben Chilwell and Badiashile could depart in January, a move for Disasi will likely hinge on the Blues' ability to bring in defensive reinforcements during the transfer window.
Reports in recent weeks have suggested that the West Londoners are considering a few options, with Tomas Araujo believed to be one of the players high up on their wishlist.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano mentioned last month that the Blues considered a move for Araujo in the summer transfer window but Benfica had no interest in selling.
The 22-year-old is believed to have an £83m release clause in his contract, meaning Maresca could still pursue his signature, even if the Primeira Liga side is reluctant to sell him.
Chelsea are second in the Premier League standings, four points behind leaders Liverpool, and they will be back in action on Boxing Day in a West London derby against Fulham.
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