Chelsea has intensified its efforts to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, with the club initiating direct talks with the Eagles to secure the 26-year-old. According to reports from football.london, Chelsea has made an official enquiry for the Frenchman, identifying him as the priority target to partner Levi Colwill in their defensive line.
Sources indicate that Lacroix is open to the move to Stamford Bridge, leaving the primary hurdle as reaching a financial agreement with Crystal Palace. The London club is known for a consistent transfer model that involves developing talent and selling key players for significant profit to reinvest in their squad. Recent high-profile exits, including Eberechi Eze, Marc Guehi, and Michael Olise, underscore this strategy, which has facilitated successes such as their 2024/25 FA Cup win and recent Conference League title.
While Chelsea has monitored other options, including Como’s Jacobo Ramon, the club has reportedly pivoted to focus exclusively on Lacroix. The pursuit also coincides with potential departures at Stamford Bridge, with Trevoh Chalobah attracting interest from several Champions League clubs. Chelsea officials have signaled that Chalobah is not considered untouchable, provided a suitable offer is received.