Chelsea have accelerated their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix after a fresh round of talks between the two clubs' ownerships, with discussions described as positive.
Palace, who have been keen to offer the 26-year-old a new contract given he has three years remaining on his existing deal, are holding out for a minimum of £60m. The player, however, is keen for a new challenge, prompting the Eagles to begin scouting replacements, including Augsburg's Chrislain Matsima.
“Chelsea accelerate pursuit of Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix after positive talks, with Palace demanding £60m.”
Lacroix has made 98 appearances for Palace since arriving from Wolfsburg for up to £18m in August 2024. The France World Cup centre-back has emerged as one of Chelsea's key targets this summer as the club look to add Premier League experience to their squad under manager Xabi Alonso.
The west London club are also close to finalising a £117m deal for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers, signalling a busy window ahead. If the Lacroix move succeeds, the future of Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah – who has attracted interest from Como – will come further into question.
The accelerated talks indicate a significant outlay for Chelsea as they reshape their squad, with Lacroix potentially becoming the second major arrival of the summer.