West Ham face fresh competition for Axel Disasi, with Crystal Palace now preparing an offer for the Chelsea defender.
The Hammers have explored bringing the Frenchman back to the London Stadium, but Palace have now made him a priority target.
Disasi spent the second half of last season on loan with West Ham and made 14 Premier League appearances before returning to Chelsea.
Nuno Espirito Santo remains interested in a reunion as he attempts to build a squad capable of securing immediate promotion back to the Premier League.
However, West Ham’s position has become increasingly complicated.
Crystal Palace make Axel Disasi transfer move
Fabrice Hawkins reports that Crystal Palace are preparing to submit an offer for Disasi, with talks already taking place between Palace and Chelsea.
The 28-year-old has reportedly become Palace’s priority replacement for Maxence Lacroix following the Frenchman’s move to Chelsea.
That development gives Disasi another opportunity to remain in the Premier League.
ReadWestHam previously reported that West Ham had contacted Chelsea about re-signing Disasi, but the defender was reluctant to drop into the Championship following the Hammers’ relegation.
Chelsea have been looking to move Disasi on permanently this summer. Ben Jacobs previously reported that the Blues wanted around £25million plus add-ons, while clubs in Italy have also shown interest.
Palace’s move could therefore represent a significant setback for West Ham.
Disasi already knows Nuno’s system and impressed during his spell in east London, so bringing him back would have provided some continuity during a major rebuild.
However, Palace can currently offer Premier League and European football. Unless Disasi changes his stance on playing in the Championship, West Ham may now have to move further down their defensive shortlist.
