Chelsea have stepped up their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix following another round of negotiations between the two clubs. The latest discussions are being managed by the ownership groups of both sides and are understood to have been positive.
Palace have been trying to convince Lacroix to sign a new contract, despite the defender still having three years remaining on his current agreement. However, the 26-year-old is believed to be looking for a fresh challenge away from Selhurst Park.
Crystal Palace demands major fee for the defender
Crystal Palace are seeking a minimum fee of £60m for Lacroix and have already started exploring possible options to replace him. Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima is among the players being considered as a potential alternative.
Lacroix joined Palace from Wolfsburg in August 2024 in a deal that could rise to £18m and has since made 98 appearances for the club.
Chelsea pursues Premier League experience this summer
The centre-back has become one of Chelsea’s main defensive targets during the summer transfer window as the club continues its search for players with Premier League experience.
The west London side are also close to finalising a £117m agreement for Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers as they continue to strengthen their squad.
Maxence Lacroix’s transfer could affect Trevoh Chalobah’s future
A successful move for Lacroix could raise further questions over the future of Trevoh Chalobah at Chelsea. The defender has attracted interest from Como, with his situation potentially influenced by the arrival of another centre-back.
Chelsea and Crystal Palace are continuing discussions over a possible agreement, with the next steps expected to determine whether Lacroix will make the move.
