Lille 'to battle Arsenal for Axel Disasi deal'

Lille are reportedly preparing to rival Arsenal for the signature of Reims centre-back Axel Disasi.

The 22-year-old has been in impressive form at club level during the 2019-20 campaign, helping Reims boast the best defensive record in Ligue 1 at this stage of the season.

Arsenal are believed to have made formal contact with David Guion's side as they attempt to tie up a deal ahead of this summer's transfer window.

However, according to Le 10 Sport, Lille are also preparing a move for the Frenchman, who will see his current deal at the Stade Auguste-Delaune expire at the end of the 2020-21 campaign.

The report claims that the Ligue 1 side view the defender as a potential replacement for Gabriel Magalhaes, who continues to be linked with Everton and Chelsea.

Disasi helped Reims win Ligue 2 in 2017-18 but has enjoyed a breakthrough 2019-20 campaign, making 32 appearances in all competitions for the French outfit.