Chelsea are progressing towards an agreement with Crystal Palace for centre-back Maxence Lacroix, with negotiations currently focused on the transfer fee, according to Fabrizio Romano. Reports over the weekend suggesting Arsenal might attempt to hijack the deal following their unsuccessful pursuit of Morgan Rogers are, at this time, inaccurate.
Chelsea recently completed the signing of Rogers from Aston Villa for a reported £117 million, a British record transfer fee, with the player signing a six-year contract with a club option for a seventh. Arsenal had been heavily linked with Rogers, but were unwilling to meet Villa’s asking price, paving the way for Chelsea’s swift move.
Romano clarified on YouTube that Arsenal are not currently involved in discussions for Lacroix, despite recent reports. He stated that all parties involved in the Chelsea-Palace negotiations – the ownership, player agents, and the clubs themselves – are actively engaged. Palace are reportedly seeking a fee of around £55 million, influenced by the £52 million Tottenham paid for Jan Paul van Hecke.
Arsenal’s interest in strengthening their central defence has been heightened by a back injury to William Saliba, which may require surgery. However, Romano insists that, as of now, the Gunners are not pursuing Lacroix, and the 26-year-old is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are described as “working hard” to finalise a club-to-club agreement as quickly as possible.
Lacroix’s potential arrival would continue Xabi Alonso’s rebuilding efforts at Chelsea, following the significant investment in Rogers. The quick resolution of the Lacroix deal would allow the Chelsea manager to focus on further strengthening his squad ahead of the new season.
