Chelsea are making significant headway in their attempt to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, with discussions progressing positively this week according to TEAMtalk. The 26-year-old France international is reportedly open to a move across London as Blues manager Xabi Alonso seeks to reshape his squad.
Palace are keen to retain Lacroix, who still has three years remaining on his contract after joining from Wolfsburg in 2024, and have offered to discuss improved terms. However, sources indicate that Lacroix is eager to take the next step in his career following a successful season at Selhurst Park, where he played a key role in their Conference League triumph and earned a place in France’s World Cup squad.
Chelsea’s interest is driven by Lacroix’s versatility, with the Frenchman capable of playing in both a back four and a three-man defence. His successful adaptation to the Premier League has also been a factor in Alonso’s assessment, who prioritises defensive reinforcements capable of fitting multiple tactical systems. The Blues are also nearing an agreement for Atalanta wing-back Marco Palestra.
Chelsea’s central defence is expected to undergo significant changes this summer, with Wesley Fofana’s fitness issues casting doubt on his future. Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, and Axel Disasi are all understood to be available for transfer, with the club potentially allowing up to four defenders to depart. The development of young defenders Aaron Anselmino and Mamadou Sarr is also under review, with loan moves a possibility. Chelsea are also looking to address the left-back position following the sale of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid.
