Chelsea have moved from interest to action in their search for a new central defender. The London club have now opened talks over a move for Maxence Lacroix, who has become one of their leading targets for the summer window.
Chelsea step up pursuit of Lacroix
Chelsea have begun contacts over a potential transfer of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. According to Fabrizio Romano, the 26-year-old French centre-back is currently high on the club’s list as they look to strengthen the defensive line.
The move is connected with Chelsea’s wider plan to add more physicality, height and reliability at the back. Lacroix fits that profile well. He is quick, strong in duels and already knows the Premier League, which makes him a less risky option than a player arriving from another league.
Crystal Palace do not want to lose him easily. Lacroix has become an important figure at Selhurst Park since joining from Wolfsburg, and Palace are preparing for a demanding season under Pierre Sage, including European football. That makes negotiations complicated, especially if Chelsea try to complete the deal quickly.
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Chelsea have also considered other centre-back options, including Jacobo Ramon from Como. However, Lacroix is understood to be ahead of him in the current internal ranking.
The priority is clear: Chelsea want a defender capable of immediately competing for a starting role, not only a squad option. After uncertainty around several players in that area, the club are looking for someone who can raise the physical level of the back line.
Lacroix’s Premier League experience works in his favour. He has already adapted to English football and has shown he can operate in a demanding defensive structure. His previous work with Oliver Glasner at Wolfsburg and Crystal Palace also helped him develop into a leader-type centre-back.
For now, talks are at an early stage. Chelsea’s interest is serious, but the final outcome will depend on Crystal Palace’s valuation and the player’s own stance. If the London club decide to accelerate the operation, Lacroix could become one of the key defensive transfers of their summer.