Crystal Palace are intensifying their interest in Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell as they anticipate the departure of Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea, according to TEAMtalk. New Palace manager Pierre Sage has identified the 23-year-old as a key defensive target and is driving the pursuit.
Cresswell has impressed since joining Toulouse in 2024, establishing himself as a prominent defender in Ligue 1 and attracting attention from clubs across Europe. Palace view him as an ideal long-term replacement for Lacroix, whose move to Stamford Bridge is progressing. Chelsea have reportedly offered several central defenders – Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Axel Disasi, and Trevoh Chalobah – as part of negotiations, but Palace are focused on securing Cresswell.
Sage, who has closely followed Cresswell’s development during his time coaching in Ligue 1, is a strong advocate for the transfer. The Palace recruitment team shares his assessment, believing Cresswell possesses the attributes to become a cornerstone of their defence. Cresswell’s career has been revitalized by regular first-team football in France, after previously being with Leeds United.
Leeds and recently promoted Coventry City have also expressed interest in the England Under-21 international, but Palace are currently leading the race. The club are keen to finalize a deal for Cresswell before Lacroix’s transfer to Chelsea is completed, and discussions are ongoing to accelerate the process. Palace believe Cresswell’s age, Premier League experience, and development in Ligue 1 make him a valuable addition. This signing would provide a long-term solution in central defence for the Eagles.
