Maxence Lacroix was part of the Crystal Palace side that beat Rayo Vallecano to win the Conference League in May. Chelsea have accelerated their interest in the defender after a fresh round of talks with Crystal Palace.
The proposed deal is being handled by the ownership of both clubs, and the latest discussions have been described as positive. Palace have been keen to offer Lacroix, who has three years to run on his existing deal, a new contract, but the player is keen for a new challenge.
Why do Palace want to protect Lacroix's future?
Palace want to secure Lacroix on improved terms because of his importance to the side and his contract situation. It is understood The Eagles want a deal worth a minimum £60m for the 26-year-old and have started looking at potential replacements, with Ausburg's Chrislain Matsima among the players monitored.
Lacroix has made 98 appearances for Palace since joining from Wolfsburg in a deal worth up to £18m in August 2024. The centre-back, who played for France at the World Cup, has emerged as one of Chelsea's key targets this summer as the club look to sign players with Premier League experience.
How does Lacroix fit into Chelsea's summer plans?
Chelsea see Lacroix as a target that fits their wider recruitment approach this summer. The west London club are looking to sign players with Premier League experience, and Lacroix has become one of their key options as talks with Palace continue.
Chelsea are also close to completing a £117m deal for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers. If Chelsea's move for Lacroix is successful, the future of Trevoh Chalobah, who has interest from Como, will come further into question.
Key Facts
- Maxence Lacroix joined Crystal Palace from Wolfsburg in August 2024 for up to £18m.
- The 26-year-old has made 98 appearances for Palace and has three years left on his current contract.
- Palace want at least £60m for the defender, while Chelsea's talks with the club have been described as positive.
- Ausburg's Chrislain Matsima is among the players Palace are monitoring as a possible replacement.
- Chelsea are also close to a £117m deal for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers.
