Chelsea have stepped up their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, with discussions accelerating significantly over the past 48 hours as the west London club look to strengthen their options at the back ahead of the new season.
The French centre-half has emerged as one of Chelsea’s leading defensive targets, and sources indicate that contact between the club and the player’s camp has intensified in recent days. Chelsea are now moving towards making their intentions clear to Palace as they assess the possibility of bringing the 26-year-old to Stamford Bridge this summer.
Lacroix is understood to have informed Crystal Palace at the conclusion of last season that he would be open to leaving should a suitable opportunity arise. While the defender remains fully respectful of Palace and appreciative of the role the club has played in his career, he is believed to be keen on taking the next step should an ambitious project present itself.
Chelsea appear to fit that description.
The Blues are preparing to verbally made a bid of around £40M, to test crystal palace resolve on the player. While no formal offer has yet been submitted, Chelsea are expected to gauge Palace’s position with an opening proposal in that region before deciding whether to proceed with more concrete negotiations.
The situation remains at an early stage, but there is growing confidence within Chelsea’s hierarchy that a deal could be explored if Palace indicate a willingness to engage in talks.
Importantly, discussions with the player’s representatives have already taken place and are understood to have progressed positively. Chelsea have done significant groundwork behind the scenes, ensuring they are well positioned should they decide to advance their interest with an official approach.
Again, personal terms is never a problem, as the player has made Chelsea his priority.
That stance is likely to encourage Chelsea as they weigh up their next move. The defender’s preference could prove significant should competition emerge from elsewhere in the market, although Chelsea currently appear to be in the strongest position.
Crystal Palace, however, are under no immediate pressure to sell. Lacroix remains an important figure within Oliver Glasner’s squad and was a key part of the side’s impressive performances last season. Palace would therefore be expected to demand a substantial fee before considering any sale.
With Chelsea continuing to reshape their squad ahead of the new campaign, defensive reinforcements remain a priority. Lacroix’s profile, experience and athletic qualities make him an attractive option for the club’s recruitment team.
The coming days are expected to provide greater clarity on whether Chelsea’s growing interest develops into a formal bid, but for now, negotiations are gathering momentum and the defender’s preference is clear.
