Chelsea accelerate talks to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix
Chelsea have accelerated their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix following a positive fresh round of ownership-level talks.
The 26-year-old currently has three years remaining on his existing contract at Selhurst Park.
However, the French World Cup player is eager to embrace a new challenge despite the Eagles’ strong desire to agree a renewed deal.
Palace demand premium fee for prized asset
It is understood that Palace are demanding a minimum fee of £60m to sanction the departure of their formidable centre-back.
The south London side have subsequently started evaluating potential replacements in the transfer market.
Augsburg centre-half Chrislain Matsima has emerged as a prominent candidate being closely monitored by the recruitment team.
Lacroix has established himself as a highly reliable performer, registering 98 appearances since his £18m arrival from German outfit Wolfsburg.
Stamford Bridge hierarchy target domestic experience
Securing targets with proven Premier League pedigree has become a core strategy for the west London club during the current window.
This targeted approach is further highlighted by Chelsea nearing a staggering £117m agreement for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers.
Should a move for Lacroix prove successful, it will cast immediate doubt over the future of homegrown defender Trevoh Chalobah.
The versatile academy graduate is already attracting significant transfer interest from Serie A outfit Como.