Newcastle United have been handed a blow in their hunt for a new defender this summer, as Chelsea have agreed a deal worth $42 million with AS Monaco for Axel Disasi.

The Magpies were believed to be leading the race to sign the Frenchman, but Chelsea have pounced, according to the Guardian, and they could be set to announce the deal before the weekend.

Chelsea beat Newcastle in race to sign Axel Disasi

Chelsea reignited their interest in the central defender over the weekend after losing Wesley Fofana to a serious knee injury. It is believed that Disasi will offer extra cover for the Blues in the defensive positions.

Disasi will present competition for Thiago Silva, Levi Colwill, and Benoit Badiashile. The signing will also open the door for departures in the defensive position.

There is a growing feeling that Trevoh Chalobah will be allowed to leave the club, with West Ham United and Inter Milan both showing an interest. Meanwhile, the signing of Disasi will likely see the Blues send Bashir Humphreys out on loan.