Borussia Dortmund are reportedly looking at Chelsea defender Axel Disasi as a possible replacement for Nico Schlotterbeck if he leaves next summer. The BVB are looking at early plans while they are still talking to Schlotterbeck about a contract.
In 2023, Chelsea paid about €45 million for Disasi, who is now 27 years old. He has fallen out of favor with the first team and would probably be available for a lower fee and a salary that fits Dortmund’s structure.
He also worked with Niko Kovac at Monaco, which would make it easier for him to adjust to the Westfalenstadion if BVB acts. The club is thinking about different scenarios, such as Schlotterbeck or Niklas Sule leaving. The latter’s contract situation also plays a role in summer planning.
Schlotterbeck’s future is still the main point. He avoided questions about outside interests while on international duty in Germany, saying,
“I can’t really say anything about that.”
He praised Bayern Munich centre-back Jonathan Tah, his partner on the national team, saying:
“I’ve known Jona for a few years now, and I always enjoy playing with him. We complement each other well.”
Dortmund can prepare in the background while talks about an extension go on. Reports out of Germany insist that BVB’s top priority is an extension, but the club is wisely planning other options as well.
If Schlotterbeck, who is left-footed, were to leave, BVB would want a player like Disasi, who can win balls, be good in the air, and recover quickly. Bayern and other teams are also keeping an eye on his situation.
Why is Axel Disasi not playing for Chelsea currently?
Axel Disasi is not on Chelsea’s team right now. He is on the so-called bomb squad at Stamford Bridge and has been training away from the first team. Since September, things have gotten worse, and the Professional Footballers’ Association is keeping an eye on how the Blues with Disasi and Raheem Sterling.
Enzo Maresca made Chelsea’s team more efficient by getting rid of players who weren’t in his plans. Disasi isn’t even close to being back in the team or making matchday squads, so the club is looking into loan options before January. It will be hard for him to leave permanently because his contract lasts until 2029.
If Nico Schlotterbeck leaves, Borussia Dortmund is said to be interested in signing him in 2026. This keeps Disasi on European radars while he is still in Cobham, although his lack of playing time might be problematic.