West Ham agree permanent terms to sign Axel Disasi from Chelsea - there's one catch
West Ham have agreed terms to bring Axel Disasi back to the London Stadium from Chelsea.
The 28-year-old joined the Hammers in the winter transfer window on loan and endeared himself to supporters.
He played 17 times for Nuno Espirito Santo's side in his spell in E20, but could not prevent them from being relegated.
There was speculation that he was unwilling to play in the Championship, but that stance may have changed.
The Irons need reinforcements at the back if they are to mount a serious challenge to return to the Premier League, and the Stamford Bridge man would fit the bill.
However, there may be a catch that could be a sticking point for a comeback.
What could stop West Ham from bringing Disasi back?
West Ham Zone has previously covered a potential return to East London for Disasi.
That may have taken a step closer after the latest update.
Simon Phillips reported on Monday, via his YouTube channel, that terms had been agreed between the clubs in principle for a permanent deal.
He also stated that the Irons have an agreement with the player, but it includes a buyout clause, if they do not secure promotion.
However, he claimed that the deal is not done yet, Disasi wants to wait a week as he wants to see if interest from three other clubs is serious.
What do the numbers say about Disasi's return to East London?
Nuno already knows what Disasi can do, as he has seen him in action for half a season.
The Blues star averaged one tackle, 2.29 recoveries and 3.51 clearances per game in the league for the Irons last season, per Fotmob data.
The Frenchman won 63.3 per cent of ground duels and 58.1 per cent in the air.
He completed 86.6 per cent of his passing attempts, as well as 0.14 dribbles, for a 100 per cent success rate, when he tried to bring the ball out at the back.
If he can recreate those numbers in the second tier, against lesser opposition, then the Rush Green side will a huge chance of getting back to where they belong.