It’s been over a month since Arsenal were first linked with Stade Reims centre back Axel Disasi, the €15-million-rated youngster who has taken Ligue 1 by storm this season.

After having a bid for the player rejected in January, Arsenal were reportedly set to re-enter the race for Disasi’s signature and combat the likes of Southampton and AS Monaco. Since then, Spanish club Sevilla and even Arsenal’s North London rivals, Tottenham, have entered the picture.

Today, Stade Reims’ president is quoted by ABC de Sevilla saying that a move to England is more likely. He cannot confirm that Arsenal are the frontrunners, but it sure sounds like it:

This will be considered a blow for Sevilla and any other non-English clubs monitoring Disasi, narrowing the favorites down to Arsenal, Spurs, and Southampton.

Only 22 years old, Axel Disasi was crucial to Reims holding the best defensive record in France this season, conceding just 21 goals in 28 games. His contract expires in 2021, so unless there’s a major turnaround, Reims will be looking to sell him this summer to avoid losing him for free a season later.

Southampton would likely be able to offer Disasi more playing time, but both Arsenal and Spurs will be tempted by a price tag that should be considered very reasonable in today’s market.

Header Photo: Ksiamon, 2019