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Crystal Palace have agreed a deal to sign Chelsea defender Axel Disasi on loan without an option to buy, according to transfer reporter Fabrice Hawkins. The Eagles desperately need reinforcements at the back following the sale of Maxence Lacroix to the Blues. Palace have now turned to the Frenchman to anchor the defence alongside Chris Richards and Jaydee Canvot. Talks are ongoing with the player and his representatives. A dry loan also gives Palace the flexibility to sign Raphael Le Guen, a young defender they have been chasing for several weeks. Disasi could be Palace’s sixth summer signing after Dwight McNeil, Anan Khalaili, Zavier Gozo, Oscar Mingueza and Takehiro Tomiyasu. Disasi caught the eye with a superb loan stint at West Ham United after failing to get a look-in at his parent club. He was aerially dominant and shone in a deep block that masked his weaknesses. He will have a new system and set-up, but the 28-year-old should be able to adapt. Palace begin their Premier League campaign on Saturday but are short of quality in defence. There is also uncertainty regarding the future of Ismaila Sarr. Disasi’s weaknesses are an issue for Palace Palace must be wary of Disasi’s tendency to struggle with his reading of the game and understanding of space. He can be caught stepping out at the wrong time, leaving gaps behind him or failing to react quickly enough when opponents move the ball into dangerous areas. His physical strength and aerial ability serve him well, particularly in a deep defensive block, but sides will test him with movement and quick combinations. Palace’s defensive structure will be crucial. If Disasi is asked to defend large spaces or exposed in one-on-one situations too often, his weaknesses could quickly become apparent.