Chelsea have Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix high on their list of centre-back targets as Xabi Alonso assesses defensive reinforcements before the new Premier League season.
The Guardian reports that Lacroix, 26, is admired at Stamford Bridge while Como centre-back Jacobo Ramon is also being considered, with the Blues potentially looking at two additions depending on defensive outgoings.
The update matters because Chelsea’s back line is already in a period of movement. Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid has increased the need for balance on the left side of defence, while there remains uncertainty around Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana. Alonso also has Reece James and Malo Gusto at right-back, but any sale from that group would sharpen the requirement for another senior defender.
Lacroix profile fits Chelsea need
Lacroix would give Chelsea a Premier League-proven option with recovery pace, height and front-foot defending. Palace are unlikely to welcome interest in a player who has become a key part of their side, but Chelsea’s recruitment team appear to be testing a market that has already shifted quickly this summer.
Ramon, 21, offers a different profile: younger, technical and with room to develop. That makes the Lacroix link the more immediate one, especially if Alonso wants a defender ready to step straight into a rebuilt Chelsea structure.
With Palestra also on the radar at full-back, the latest Guardian transfer update points towards a clear theme: Chelsea are prioritising defenders who can reshape the squad quickly rather than simply adding depth.
