Chelsea pursue Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix in transfer push
Chelsea are actively pursuing a summer transfer for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, but the move hinges on the Eagles securing a suitable replacement first.
The Stamford Bridge club have prioritised defensive reinforcements under new manager Xabi Alonso.
Alonso is keen to acquire full-backs for both flanks alongside a top-level central defender.
The Blues recently lost Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid, intensifying their immediate need for proven talent in the backline.
Previous managers Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior had also identified central defence as a critical weakness during their respective tenures.
Palace demand replacement before sale
The highly-rated Frenchman has emerged as a primary target after an outstanding season at Selhurst Park.
However, negotiating with the south London club remains notoriously difficult for potential suitors.
According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Eagles will flatly refuse to sanction any departure until a successor is signed.
“Crystal Palace will let their top players go only when and if they believe the fee is right and they have a replacement.”
Romano added that patience will be essential for the west Londoners as they continue pushing for the transfer.
The Selhurst Park hierarchy have previously demonstrated their resolve by collapsing a proposed deal sending Marc Guehi to Liverpool over a lack of adequate cover.
A rising star in south London
The imposing central defender quickly established himself as a dressing room leader following his arrival in the Premier League.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner recently praised the young centre-half for his maturity and rapid adaptation to English football.
“He’s a leader, but I still think that he has the potential to improve in every part of his game.”
Glasner noted that the resilient defender formed a formidable unit alongside Guehi, Chris Richards and goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Despite currently representing his country at the World Cup, the long-term club future of the French international remains the subject of intense speculation.