West Ham are interested in signing Stade de Reims centre-back Axel Disasi, according to reports in the English media.

Southampton, Monaco and a number of German teams are also said to be pursuing the defender, but it seems as though Arsenal are the frontrunners for the 22-year-old’s signature.

The Gunners have reportedly already held formal talks with Reims to register their interest in Disasi, with the Ligue One side said to be prepared to sell the Frenchman for €15m (£13m).

Hammers boss David Moyes is likely to be looking for reinforcements to the backline when the transfer window reopens. Winston Reid’s future at the London Stadium is in doubt while Fabian Balbuena has been poor during his second season with the club.

Disasi has been part of a defence that has conceded just 21 goals in 28 league games this season, and with the France Under 20 international available at a low price, it is unsurprising that West Ham have taken a keen interest in the player.