Chelsea have added Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix to their summer transfer shortlist after the player informed the London club he will not be signing a new contract, according to reports. This development comes as a boost for Chelsea as they seek to bolster their defensive options ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Lacroix, a centre-back, has been a consistent performer for Crystal Palace since joining the club in 2022. He has established himself as a key figure in their backline, known for his strength, aerial ability, and pace. His decision not to renew his contract with Palace creates an opportunity for other clubs to pursue his signature, and Chelsea appear to be at the forefront of the chase.
Arsenal’s interest in Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott has been complicated by the club’s intention to offer him a new contract which includes an €86 million release clause, Sky Sports reports. This significant release clause could deter Arsenal from pursuing a deal for the young midfielder.
Manchester United have adopted a firm stance in negotiations with West Ham regarding Mateus Fernandes, informing the Hammers they will not meet their valuation of the €92 million-rated midfielder. This could open the door for other clubs to enter the race for the Portuguese international. A move for Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest to Manchester City is expected to have a ripple effect on Liverpool’s transfer plans.
Chelsea are also expected to intensify their interest in Sporting CP wing-back Maxi Araujo following the sale of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid. Bayer Leverkusen have renewed their pursuit of Rangers’ Emmanuel Fernandez, potentially leading to a record sale for the Scottish club. New Zealand international Tim Payne is set for a move to South America, while Celtic have initiated talks with Borussia Dortmund’s Cole Campbell.
Tottenham Hotspur have received a boost with Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali expressing a desire to move to North London. Interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha is growing, with both Real Madrid and Manchester United reportedly monitoring his situation. Arsenal remain in contention to sign RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, while Manchester United are identifying potential replacements for Marcus Rashford, though his future at the club remains uncertain.
