Chelsea have moved closer to signing Maxence Lacroix after increasing their offer to around £52m, according to reports.
Crystal Palace are continuing to demand a higher fee for the France international, but the two clubs are now moving towards an agreement.
Palace are reportedly prepared to sell Lacroix once Chelsea reach an acceptable cash valuation.
According to Alan Nixon’s latest update, negotiations have advanced as Chelsea push to deliver another major signing for Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea keep possible swaps separate from Lacroix fee
Both clubs are currently focused on agreeing the guaranteed cash package.
Possible player exchanges could be discussed later, but Chelsea are not using a swap to reduce the current Lacroix valuation.
That approach should simplify negotiations and prevent discussions over unwanted players from delaying the centre-back’s move.
Read Chelsea reported earlier this week that Palace were in a strong position because Lacroix remains under contract for another three years.
The latest development suggests Chelsea are now willing to move closer to Palace’s demands rather than pursue another defensive target.
Lacroix would bring Premier League experience, recovery pace and physical strength to Alonso’s back line. The 26-year-old can also defend the larger spaces created when Chelsea press higher up the pitch.
Personal terms could still require work. Chelsea reportedly need to offer Lacroix a significant pay increase because the Blues will not play European football during the 2026/27 season.
No final agreement has been reached, but the gap between the clubs appears to be narrowing.
Chelsea must now decide whether to make one more increase and complete a deal before Alonso’s squad travels overseas.
