Providing of course that West Ham and Nuno survive the next six games with their Premier League status intact, there is growing optimism that Chelsea colossus Axel Disasi could become a permanent addition to the West Ham squad.
Disasi has been treated well by Nuno, who kept the promises he made before the defender signed.
Despite interest from Aston Villa and Fulham, sources close to West Ham appear to be attributing a heavy significance to the players’ relationship with Nuno Espirito Santo, as reported in yesterday’s NYTimes.com:
“It will come as a boost that Axel Disasi is already planning for life beyond May at the London Stadium. Sources with knowledge of the situation, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to protect relationships, say the 27-year-old centre-back is open to joining West Ham United on a permanent deal if the club avoids relegation from the Premier League.”
There’s still the oh-so minor detail of West Ham meeting Chelsea’s valuation of the player – now far higher than it was in January when he was out in the cold at Stamford Bridge without a senior game under his belt for half a year. Added in the apparent interest from Aston Villa and the Hammers could yet face a fight for Disasi’s signature.
But don’t underestimate the experiences Disasi himself has had in the last few months becoming part of Nuno’s tight knit team of battlers. Compared with an unsuccessful loan last year at Aston Villa, the player himself has an evident preference for staying in east London:
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“Nuno convinced Disasi to join West Ham over Italian side Milan. Before the defender signed, he wanted two assurances from Nuno: he would not be played out of position and that he be a regular in the team.
West Ham players celebrate scoring a goal
Disasi – played out of position at Aston Villa and evidently hasn’t forgotten it
The need for reassurance stemmed from Disasi’s loan at Aston Villa in February 2025. He made 10 appearances across all competitions under Unai Emery, but did not always play in his preferred centre-back position. Disasi found it frustrating and wanted to avoid it happening again. Nuno has not gone against his word.”
Which is a pretty clear green light for Disasi opting for a future at West Ham- providing the Hammers can work their miracle and keep their top tier status.