Chelsea in talks to sign Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace
Chelsea is reportedly in discussions with Crystal Palace regarding the potential transfer of defender Maxence Lacroix. The France international is a primary target for Chelsea, with negotiations between the two London clubs progressing.
Sources indicate that Palace is seeking a transfer fee exceeding that paid by Tottenham for Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton to approve Lacroix’s departure. The defender joined the Eagles from Wolfsburg. There is growing confidence that a deal can be finalised between the clubs.
Chelsea and Crystal Palace have a history of player transfers, including deals for Trevoh Chalobah and Ben Chilwell. This existing relationship may facilitate the current negotiations.
Lacroix’s Role and Chelsea’s Defensive Strategy
Lacroix is considered a key component in Xabi Alonso’s long-term defensive plans for Chelsea. The club aims to build a squad capable of competing for Champions League honours. Chelsea is looking to sign a centre-back who is physically imposing and possesses Premier League experience.
Reports suggest that personal terms have been agreed in principle between Lacroix’s representatives and Chelsea. The player is understood to be receptive to a move across London.
Crystal Palace has reportedly set an asking price for Lacroix, with Chelsea nearing that valuation. The Eagles are in a strong negotiating position as Lacroix has a remaining contract at Selhurst Park.
The potential sale of Lacroix would align with Palace’s strategy of developing talent and securing significant profits from player transfers, a pattern observed with previous departures such as Marc Guehi, Michael Olise, and Eberechi Eze.
Other Transfer Activities at Chelsea
Chelsea’s transfer activities extend beyond the pursuit of Lacroix. The club is also nearing the completion of a deal for Aston Villa player Morgan Rogers. Rogers underwent a medical on Monday morning. If the move is finalised, Rogers is expected to sign a long-term contract with Chelsea.
Rogers recently returned from the USA after England secured a third-place finish at the World Cup, following a bronze-final victory over France. Chelsea reportedly moved swiftly to secure this deal ahead of Arsenal, who were unwilling to meet the asking price for Rogers.
Rogers is set to become a significant acquisition for Chelsea, becoming the most expensive British player of all time. This transfer would surpass the fee paid by Manchester City for Elliot Anderson and would also represent Chelsea’s record signing, exceeding the amount paid for Moises Caicedo.
In terms of outgoings, several Chelsea defenders could depart. Chalobah is reportedly close to a move to Serie A side Como. Other players who might move on include Benoit Badiashile, who has attracted interest from Napoli, Malo Gusto, and Axel Disasi, should suitable offers be received.
Chelsea has also been active in strengthening other areas of the squad. They have completed the signing of Marco Palestra from Atalanta. The club is also looking to bring in a new left-back following Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid.
Chelsea had been in negotiations for Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano but are now exploring alternative targets due to increased demands from the Spanish club. These alternatives include Alvaro Carreras of Real Madrid and Archie Brown from Fenerbahce. Chelsea is also monitoring Lewis Hall of Newcastle United, though Hall’s priority is reportedly a move to Manchester United if he leaves St James’ Park this summer.
With potential deals for Rogers and Lacroix, Alonso’s squad is taking shape ahead of the new campaign, with further additions anticipated before the transfer window closes. Lacroix is also confirmed to start for France against England in Saturday’s World Cup third-place play-off.
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Source: skysports.com
