Chelsea are expected to begin talks with Crystal Palace over Maxence Lacroix as Xabi Alonso’s defensive plan starts to take a clearer shape.
The Palace centre-back has emerged as one of the names under consideration as Chelsea look for extra power, height and Premier League experience at the back. Lacroix is currently with France at the World Cup, but the transfer interest is already moving in the background as Alonso prepares to officially begin work at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s centre-back picture is crowded, yet uncertainty over fitness and futures means the club are still exploring reinforcements, according to talkSPORT’s update on the expected Lacroix talks.
Why Lacroix fits the Chelsea debate
Lacroix would not be a glamour signing in the usual Chelsea sense, but that may be the point. Alonso needs defenders who can handle space, defend aggressively and still offer enough physical security in transition.
The Frenchman has built his Palace reputation around recovery pace and front-foot defending, two qualities Chelsea have lacked whenever their back line has been stretched.
The challenge is cost and necessity. Chelsea already have several centre-backs, so any move for Lacroix would need to be matched by outgoings or a clear decision that Alonso wants a different defensive profile immediately.
