West Ham near deal for Chelsea defender

Axel Disasi is on the verge of a move to West Ham, as the central defender has reportedly agreed terms with the East London club. It is understood that The Hammers will pay around £5.75 million for the Frenchman, who has been on a six month paid leave away from Stamford Bridge, exiled away from the Blues' first-team squad.

West Ham are seeking defensive reinforcements and have turned their attentions to Disasi, with the centre back supposedly ready to stay in England in search of regular first-team football.

West Ham failed in their efforts to sign Disasi last summer, but L'Equipe have published a report stating that the club have continued their pursuit of the defender and are confident that an agreement will be swiftly concluded.

Newly appointed manager at Chelsea, Liam Rosenior, has informed the player that he is free to leave the Blues and that his contract can be ended early.

It is understood that there is also interest from Germany, with Werder Bremen amongst the teams monitoring the Disasi situation.