Chelsea have accelerated talks with Crystal Palace over a deal for priority centre-back target Maxence Lacroix.
The Blues remain in active negotiations with Palace after a fresh round of discussions over the France international.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Lacroix is keen to complete the move to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have identified the 26-year-old as their leading centre-back target for Xabi Alonso’s first season.
BBC Sport correspondent Sami Mokbel adds that talks are being handled by the ownership groups of both clubs. Palace want a package worth at least £60million before allowing the defender to leave.
Chelsea have not yet reached an agreement, but negotiations remain active.
Chelsea make Lacroix their defensive priority
The latest development follows formal talks between Chelsea and Crystal Palace over the structure of a possible deal.
Palace initially valued Lacroix at more than £55million, with chairman Steve Parish determined to secure a major return. Their demands have now reportedly risen to a minimum package of £60million.
Chelsea have already moved closer to Palace’s valuation. ReadChelsea reported on Sunday that the Blues had increased their offer to around £52million.
Lacroix’s desire to join Chelsea could support negotiations, although Palace retain a strong position. The defender has three years remaining on his contract and has become a central figure at Selhurst Park since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2024.
His speed, physical strength and Premier League experience fit the profile Alonso wants for his defence. Chelsea are also working on possible departures, with Trevoh Chalobah, Axel Disasi and Benoît Badiashile facing uncertain futures.
The gap between the clubs appears to be narrowing. Chelsea must now decide whether to meet Palace’s £60million demand and close a deal for Alonso’s defensive priority.
