**West Ham’s pursuit of centre-back Axel Disasi on a permanent transfer may have hit a huge obstacle.**
The French centre-back has been phenomenal for the Irons since signing on loan from Chelsea in January. Since Disasi’s debut, Nuno Espírito Santo’s side have kept four clean sheets in all competitions. Prior to that, they had kept just one.
Disasi has quickly become a fan favourite at the London Stadium and seems to be loving life in East London. This has led to Hammers fans clamouring for their club to sign the 28-year-old permanently in the summer.
However, though Disasi himself appears keen on the move, there are a few obstacles in the way. Firstly, West Ham must remain in the Premier League for any kind of deal to happen. And secondly, should they stay up, they must meet Chelsea’s price demands.
It has been rumoured that the Blues have placed a fee in excess of £35 million on the Frenchman, which West Ham could struggle to pay. But the most recent, and perhaps most significant obstacle was revealed on Monday, when news broke that Chelsea were set to be reprimanded for breaching Premier League rules.
The Blues have been fined £10.75 million for secret payments made to agents during the Roman Abramovich era. The fine also relates to breaches of rules when it comes to registering youth players.
Though that kind of money may seem insignificant to a club of Chelsea’s stature, it is still an excuse to drive up the asking price for Disasi.
Additionally, the Blues have been handed a one-year transfer ban. Although it is suspended for two years, it will require Chelsea to plan ahead – which could actually benefit West Ham. The club could find themselves under pressure to raise funds to pay for players in the short term. Consequently, this could force them to sell Disasi to the Irons for a more favourable fee.
Disasi will be 30 by the time the transfer ban is implemented. His price will have depreciated by then, especially if he isn’t playing regular first-team football. Although the fine handed to Chelsea could prove a blow for the Hammers, their impending transfer ban could provide Nuno’s side with an opportunity.
That is, of course, provided West Ham avoid relegation this season.