Chelsea are preparing to strengthen their defence under new manager Xabi Alonso, with Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix emerging as one of the club’s leading transfer targets.
The Blues are expected to add at least one new central defender this summer as Alonso begins reshaping his squad ahead of the new season. Chelsea’s defensive plans have accelerated amid growing interest from Serie A side Como in Trevoh Chalobah.
Lacroix has now moved to the forefront of Chelsea’s recruitment plans, with Crystal Palace reportedly bracing itself for an approach from their London rivals.
The 26-year-old French defender has become one of Palace’s most influential players and played a significant role in the club’s recent successes, helping the Eagles secure both the FA Cup and the Europa Conference League.
Despite having three years remaining on his current contract, uncertainty remains over his long-term future at Selhurst Park. Palace is understood to be eager to tie the defender down to a new deal, although it remains unclear whether Lacroix is prepared to enter negotiations.
Chelsea’s defensive overhaul has already gathered pace this summer. The club sanctioned the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid in a deal worth £51.8 million and is also close to completing the signing of Atalanta defender Marco Palestra for a fee believed to exceed £43 million.
However, central defence remains a priority area for Alonso, who is keen to add greater stability, physicality, and leadership to his back line.
Lacroix, currently away on international duty at the World Cup, has attracted attention with his consistent performances and experience at the highest level, making him an attractive option for the Stamford Bridge hierarchy.
Chelsea is also monitoring other alternatives, including 21-year-old Como defender Jacobo Ramon, who is viewed as a promising long-term investment.
As the transfer window progresses, Chelsea’s pursuit of Lacroix could become one of the key defensive deals of the summer, with Palace facing an increasingly difficult task in holding on to one of their most important players.
