Axel Disasi is closing in on a move to Chelsea (Picture: Youssef Loulidi/Fantasista/Getty Images)

Arsenal pulled out of the race to sign Chelsea-bound Axel Disasi because they were reluctant to meet Monaco’s asking price, according to reports.

Chelsea are close to securing the signing of 25-year-old France international defender Disasi after agreeing a deal in principle worth ?45m (£38m).

The Gunners and Manchester United had both reportedly been looking at Disasi before news broke of Chelsea’s breakthrough.

Arsenal have already signed a new defender this summer, bringing in Jurrien Timber from Ajax.

United, meanwhile, are considering whether or not to re-sign veteran centre-back Jonny Evans after his impressive performances in pre-season on a short-term deal.
Chelsea were forced into the transfer market for a centre-back after another injury to Wesley Fofana – who is expected to be out for a meaningful period of time with a knee problem.

Disasi has knocked up four caps for France and was part of the 2022 World Cup squad, playing in the final as the French lost to Argentina.

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The 25-year-old mad his professional debut for Paris&nbs...