Chelsea are reportedly showing serious interest in Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, but they may have to pay a sizeable fee to get a deal done this summer.
According to Football Insider, Palace are expected to demand at least £50m for the 26-year-old France defender.
The report claims Lacroix has emerged as a top target for Chelsea, who are looking to strengthen their back line ahead of the new season.
There is no confirmed agreement between the two London clubs, but Chelsea’s interest appears to be growing.
Chelsea hold strong interest in the French defender
Chelsea’s need for defensive reinforcements is clear. The Blues have plenty of centre-backs on their books, but there are still questions over consistency, injuries and long-term balance in defense.
Lacroix would offer something different. He is quick, physically strong, comfortable defending in a high line and already proven in the Premier League.
That makes him a safer option than signing a defender from abroad who may need time to adapt.
talkSPORT has also reported that Chelsea are preparing a bid for the Palace defender, with the player’s performances in England and rise into the France setup increasing his appeal.
Crystal Palace hold strong transfer position
Palace are in no rush to sell cheaply. Lacroix only joined the Eagles from Wolfsburg in 2024.
That contract gives Palace power in negotiations, and after his strong performances under Oliver Glasner, it is no surprise they want a premium fee.
Lacroix would be a smart signing for Chelsea, but £50m is still a serious price. He has Premier League experience and the athletic profile Chelsea need, so the interest makes sense.
However, Chelsea should only go that high if he is genuinely their first-choice defensive target. If not, they may be better off looking for better value elsewhere.
With my decision, it is right for chelsea to go for Lacroix and then bring in Dusan vlahovic and may be Arda Culer in case Enzo leaves the club.
To me as a chelsea fan it is a good decision for chelsea to go for Lacroix and rash to bring in Dusan and may be Arda Culer in case Enzo leaves the club.
If we can sell Marc to Real Madrid for 60 million, then we can afford to buy Maxence for 50 million.
very smart move, especially for his premier League experience
No trusted Palace sources are carrying this rumour and neither are the club.
Palace never discuss their transfer business in public including transfer fees for their players.
They leave that up to the media who are always making up clickbait rumours regarding Palace’s transfer activity
Lacroix is worth every penny of £60m and I don’t believe Palace will do business for less, problem here is wages, believe Lacroix wants around 180k per week and Palace won’t go to that, it’s the same scenario as with Anderson (Lacroix’s predecessor) , he went to Fulham for 35m and 150k per week on 5 year contract which Palace were unwilling to match.