Lacroix Ready for Stamford Bridge Switch as Chelsea Ramp Up Palace Negotiations

Chelsea have made their move for Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix, with fresh reports suggesting the defender is receptive to a switch to Stamford Bridge.

The Blues have initiated discussions with Palace regarding the French centre-back, who is currently representing his country at the 2026 World Cup. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Lacroix sits higher on Chelsea's defensive shopping list than alternative targets, and crucially, the 24-year-old is open to the prospect of joining the West London outfit.

Lacroix arrived at Selhurst Park from VfL Wolfsburg last summer and remains contracted until 2029, but Chelsea's pursuit appears sufficiently serious that Palace are now bracing themselves for a formal advance. Fellow journalist Ben Jacobs has corroborated that the club have already made preliminary enquiries, with Lacroix's profile—offering the height and physical presence Chelsea desire—matching their recruitment blueprint precisely.

The potential arrival would represent Chelsea's second major acquisition under new boss Alonso, following hot on the heels of the confirmed £43million deal for Atalanta's Marco Palestra, who can operate across the full-back positions. The club are also on the verge of completing a move for Strasbourg midfielder Valentin Barco, per BBC Sport.

Chelsea are exploring multiple options in central defence this summer, with Como's Jacobo Ramon also under consideration. The Spanish defender is co-owned by Real Madrid and includes a buy-back clause in his arrangement, complicating any potential negotiation. Como have enquired about Chelsea's Conor Chalobah, though the asking price currently exceeds their budget.

The Blues' defensive recruitment drive reflects Alonso's determination to reshape the squad, with outgoings expected to help facilitate multiple arrivals before the transfer window closes.