New Blue Disasi relishing Stamford Bridge roar

Axel Disasi cannot wait to strut his stuff at Stamford Bridge after completing his move from Monaco for an undisclosed fee.

The 25-year-old had two years remaining on his deal with the Ligue 1 side but has opted to leave the Monegasques to work under Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea.

And speaking after penning a six-year deal, Disasi paid tribute to the electric atmosphere at his new club's home.

He told Chelsea's website: "I can't wait to feel the energy of the fans. 

"This is a very good stadium, one where you have a beautiful proximity to the fans. A typical English stadium, I think. 

"The fervour of the fans in the Premier League, the atmosphere, the intensity of the games — it is something that excites me.

"I am so happy to be here, at this big club. I am really proud to be able to be a part of this great family and I hope to achieve very big things here, to win titles.

"I will do everything I can to achieve those objectives. I am very ambitious."

His arrival should help soften the blow of Wesley Fofana's ACL injury, which may rule the Blues starlet out of action for most of the 2023-24 season.

Disasi joined Monaco from Reims in August 2020 and his performances at the Stade Louis II saw him named as Presnel Kimpembe's replacement in France's 2022 World Cup squad.

The right-sided centre-back made three appearances in Qatar including one off the bench in the final defeat to Argentina, becoming the first Frenchman to make his international debut at a World Cup since 1966.

Chelsea's co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: "Axel has showcased his quality over several seasons in France and that has deservedly led to recognition on the international stage. 

"He is ready to take the next step in his career and we are delighted that will be with Chelsea. 

"We welcome him to the club and look forward to him joining up with Mauricio and his new team-mates in the days ahead."

Disasi will play alongside a familiar face at the Blues in Benoit Badisahile, who joined the West London outfit from Monaco during the January transfer window.