Chelsea have learned a key condition in their quest to sign France defender Maxence Lacroix after ‘formal talks’ with Crystal Palace.
Chelsea have already shaken up the transfer market by agreeing a British-record £117 million move for Morgan Rogers, but their business may not stop with another attacker.
The arrival of Rogers underlines the direction Xabi Alonso wants to take the squad.
The 23-year-old, who bagged 14 goals and 12 assists in total for Villa last season, and impressed when called upon at the World Cup for England, is capable of playing across the front line, driving through midfield with the ball and creating chances as well as scoring them.
His versatility and potential was perhaps one of the biggest reasons Chelsea were prepared to outbid Arsenal and commit such a huge fee.
Strengthening the attack, though, has never been the only objective.
Chelsea have spent much of the summer searching for another commanding centre-back, with Lacroix emerging as one of the club’s leading targets.
The Palace defender offers exactly the profile Alonso is believed to want. Standing at 6 ft 3, he combines pace with physicality and has already shown he can thrive in the Premier League after adapting quickly following his move from Wolfsburg.
There is another reason Lacroix appeals, with his experience of playing in a back three or a back four.
Chelsea’s admiration for him stretches back several weeks, with discussions over his valuation continuing throughout the summer.
Palace have remained firm because they see the France international as one of their most valuable players, especially after his impressive performances helped the Eagles win both the FA Cup and the Conference League.
Chelsea told Maxence Lacroix deal condition after Crystal Palace talks
According to talkSPORT transfer journalist Ben Jacobs, Chelsea have now taken another step by holding formal talks with Crystal Palace over a potential deal.
Jacobs reports that Palace value Lacroix at no less than £55 million. The London club are using Tottenham’s recent purchase of Jan Paul van Hecke as a benchmark, believing one of the Premier League’s best defenders should command a similar, if not higher, fee.
Arsenal are also understood to admire Lacroix, although Chelsea appear to have made the first significant move by opening discussions directly with Palace.
Negotiations are unlikely to be straightforward.
Palace are under little pressure to sell because Lacroix remains under a long-term contract, while Chelsea have already committed major funds to the Rogers transfer.
Reports have suggested player exchanges could even be discussed if both clubs look for a creative solution.
For Chelsea, this would be another statement signing.
Lacroix has developed into one of the Premier League’s most complete defenders. His recovery pace allows teams to defend higher, while his strength in the air would address an area Chelsea have occasionally lacked.
