Chelsea have increased their interest in Crystal Palace’s Lacroix

Chelsea have stepped up their interest in defender Maxence Lacroix following a new round of talks with Crystal Palace.

The proposed deal is being handled by both clubs’ ownership, with the latest talks described as positive.

Palace are keen to offer Lacroix – who has three years to run on his existing deal – a new deal, but the player is keen for a new challenge.

It is understood the Eagles want a deal worth at least £60m for the 26-year-old and have begun looking at potential replacements, with Ausburg’s Chrislain Matsima among the players monitored.

Lacroix has made 98 appearances for Palace since joining from Wolfsburg in August 2024 in a deal worth £18m.

Appeared as a center back playing for France in the World Cup One of Chelsea’s goals This summer the club are looking to sign players with Premier League experience.

The West London club is also nearing the end £117million deal for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rodgers.

if ChelseaWhile the move has been a success for Lacroix, the future of Trevo Chaloba, who is interested from Como, will come into further question.