Chelsea have begin talks over the signing of Maxence Lacroix
Chelsea have identified Crystal Palace’s 26-year-old French defender Maxence Lacroix as a primary summer transfer target to bolster Xabi Alonso’s backline ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Chelsea have placed Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix at the top of their summer transfer shortlist as they look to reinforce their defensive spine.
Newly appointed manager Xabi Alonso is prioritizing ready-made, Premier League-proven options who bring height and physicality.
Internal appreciation has grown significantly at Stamford Bridge for the French international, who is currently away on national team duty at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While recruitment lines are active, a deal for the central defender remains highly complex. Lacroix is under contract at Selhurst Park until 2029 following a highly successful spell that yielded the UEFA Conference League trophy.
Consequently, Crystal Palace are under no financial pressure to sell and will demand a premium valuation, making any potential transfer dependent on securing an adequate replacement first.
