Chelsea intensify pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Lacroix
Chelsea have accelerated their interest in Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix after fresh talks between the clubs' owners, with Palace demanding at least £60m. The 26-year-old French international is keen for a new challenge.
Chelsea have stepped up their efforts to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacrois following a new round of negotiations between the ownership groups of both clubs. The latest discussions are described as positive, and the deal is being handled directly by the owners.
Palace had been looking to offer Lacroix a new contract, as he still has three years remaining on his current deal, but the player is seeking a fresh challenge. The Eagles are holding out for a minimum fee of £60 million for the 26-year-old and have begun scouting potential replacements, including Augsburg's Chrislain Matsima.
Lacroix, a World Cup participant for France, has made 98 appearances for Palace since arriving from Wolfsburg in August 2024 for a fee that could rise to £18 million. He has become a key target for Chelsea this summer as the club prioritises signing players with Premier League experience.
Chelsea are also close to completing a £117 million deal for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers. Should Chelsea succeed in signing Lacroix, the future of Trevoh Chalobah – who has attracted interest from Como – will come under further scrutiny.
