Arsenal: Where Axel Disasi ranks among 4 other centerback targets

3. Axel Disasi

There you have it, the new addition to the transfer rumors, ranking in pretty high at No. 3 on our overall list of linked centerbacks. In case you haven’t heard, I am not very enthused by all the links to Ligue 1 players these days, but I make an exception for Axel Disasi, who doesn’t just look and play the part, he is the part.

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Disasi is the centerpiece of one of the most impressive defenses in all of Europe—Reims. While they are one of the lowest goal-scoring units in all of football as well, their defense, which has surrendered just 21 goals in 28 matches, is among the best, and it’s keeping them in the race for a European spot.

Spoiler—Disasi is a big reason why. The athletic, young Frenchman has been a menace to opposing attackers with his proactive style of defending and his impressive frame. He’s a monster in the air, he’s composed and reliable on the ball and he looks every bit the part of a class defender and I’d even make the case that he’s more exciting than William Saliba.

But there is another factor in Disasi’s favor too. That’s his price. Since he only has a year left on his contract, Reims is only looking for around £15m to avoid losing him for free next summer. That isn’t just doable, it’s can’t-miss. And I hope Arsenal is ready to not miss.

Moving on to the two defenders who are better ideas than Disasi—though not by much.