Who is Axel Disasi? The Monaco star centre-back that is 'close' to Man Utd move

Manchester United are reportedly 'close' in signing Monaco star Axel Disasi from Monaco. But who is the centre-back?

L'Equipe report that Disasi is 'one step away' from joining United, where he would become Erik ten Hag's first summer signing.

It is claimed that, while the two clubs are yet to agree a fee, the defender has chosen to move to Old Trafford this summer to bolster the side's defensive ranks.

Here is a look at the defender in more detail.

Who is Axel Disasi?

Axel Disasi is a 25-year-old France international centre-back who has, to date, spent his entire professional club career in his home country.

The 6ft 3in defender signed for Monaco in 2020 from fellow Ligue 1 side Reims, and has gone on to make 129 appearances for the club.

His strong performances led to him being named in France's World Cup squad to travel to Qatar. He started the 3-2 group stage defeat to Tunisia, and made brief cameos as a substitute in the last 16 win over Poland and the final defeat to Argentina.

How has he played this season?

Disasi has been almost ever-present in Monaco's starting XI this season, starting 37 out of their 38 Ligue 1 games.

He has scored three goals and provided three assists. Only two outfielders in Ligue 1 have played more minutes.

He is strong in the air, with his 2.8 aerial duels won per game (via WhoScored) - the highest of any member of the Monaco squad this season.

His passing range is also strong, and his temperament is also notable. Disasi has been booked only three times this season, despite playing every league game.

What's been said about him?

Speaking in 2015, then-Paris FC and future Lyon Women manager Jean-Luc Vasseur stated that he saw big things for Disasi in the future.

He said (quotes via GFFN): "I did not hesitate to put him in. Axel is the future of the club. He has great qualities so there is no reason it should go wrong."

The Frenchman was surprisingly released by the club in the summer of 2016, but was snapped up by Reims on a free transfer.

Vasseur said: "I realised quickly that he had great potential. I have rarely seen such serenity in a young player. In addition to his athleticism, his great quality is his intelligence. He quickly understands."

Why might Man Utd be interested?

The 25-year-old would solve a major defensive dilemma for Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag keen on adding another centre-back to his squad.

His progressive passing, both at short and long range, will no doubt have impressed the United boss, as well as his versatility. Although he is primarily a centre-back, Disasi can also play on the right side of defence if required.

Adding Disasi to a squad that already contains Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez would provide Ten Hag with a significant number of options.

What's the latest?

Fabrizio Romano has claimed that United have been scouring the French market for potential centre-backs in case they cannot seal a deal for Napoli star Kim Min-jae.

L'Equipe claim that Disasi is one of the players identified, and is said to be keen on a move to Old Trafford. Monaco are reportedly demanding between €45 and €50 million (around £34 million) to sell the centre-back.