Aston Villa have reportedly decided against a permanent move for Chelsea loanee Axel Disasi.
The Frenchman, who joined Chelsea from Monaco in 2023, was a regular feature in his first season at Stamford Bridge, starting 29 of his 31 Premier League appearances under Mauricio Pochettino.
However, Disasi ultimately fell down the pecking order under Enzo Maresca and was subsequently allowed to leave on loan in the January transfer window.
Villa agreed to pay a £5m loan fee to recruit Disasi until the end of the season, although there was no buy option included in the deal.
Disasi was given the chance to start the first five of the six Premier League games that he was eligible for, but he has since featured in just one of Villa's last four top-flight matches.
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Villa make decision over Disasi permanent move
In fact, the defender was left out of the matchday squad altogether for last Saturday's 1-0 home victory against Fulham.
According to The Athletic, Villa have already made a decision as to whether they will pursue a permanent transfer for Disasi.
The report indicates that the Villans are 'unlikely' to sign him on a permanent basis, with Disasi having failed to convince Unai Emery during his short time at Villa Park.
As a result, Disasi will return to his parent club Chelsea, where he has a long-term contract until the summer of 2029.
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Does Disasi have a future at Stamford Bridge?
However, it is difficult to see how Disasi can force his way back into the Chelsea first team after being deemed surplus to requirements earlier this year.
There are currently a number of centre-back options in Maresca's squad, including Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah.
While there could be departures, Chelsea would most likely sign replacements rather than bring Disasi back into the fold.
The Blues will surely look to offload Disasi on a permanent transfer, or consider another loan departure for the 2025-26 campaign.
