Chelsea conceded 52 Premier League goals last season.
More than Nottingham Forest, who finished 16th.
More than clubs fighting relegation.
For Xabi Alonso’s rebuild to carry any credibility, the defence needs to change.
And the player he wants most is at Crystal Palace.
Chelsea eyeing £50m Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix following World Cup
According to Football Insider, Lacroix has emerged as a “top target” for Chelsea this summer, with the Blues wanting to sign the France international as soon as possible and Crystal Palace having set a minimum price tag of £50 million to even consider selling.
The 26-year-old made 35 Premier League appearances last season.
A commanding, aggressive, technically sound centre-back who proved himself in both domestic and European football, with the latter coming during Palace’s Conference League triumph, the club’s third major trophy in just over 12 months.
Chelsea’s interest is not casual.
They want to get this done quickly.
The appeal is straightforward, as Lacroix has already proven he can perform at Premier League level, removing the uncertainty that comes with signing a player from a different league.
Crystal Palace don’t want to sell.
But they are pragmatic.
£50 million and above is the figure that changes that stance.
Alongside the Lacroix pursuit, Football Insider also reveals that Chelsea are expected to sell at least one senior centre-back this summer.
With Axel Diasi confirmed as departing and another player in his position expected to follow.
Josh Acheampong is not for sale.
The 20-year-old is highly regarded internally and Alonso is already planning to integrate him into the first-team picture for 2026-27.
But the overall picture at the back needs significant reorganisation, and Lacroix, at 26 with proven top-flight credentials and international pedigree with France, is the centrepiece of that overhaul.
The World Cup is currently ongoing.
Lacroix is in the France squad following his emergency call-up to replace the injured William Saliba.
Chelsea are watching every minute.
And when the tournament ends, the move they want to complete quickly will shift into top gear.
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