Chelsea are reported to be stepping up their pursuit of Maxence Lacroix after initiating talks with Crystal Palace over a possible transfer. Multiple outlets say the negotiations have begun and that Chelsea are in discussions with Palace regarding the France international defender. Reports also state that Crystal Palace is seeking a fee of at least £55 million, with some coverage describing the demand as “£55m-plus,” indicating Palace’s asking price is higher than or around that level.
Coverage notes that the renewed push from Chelsea comes after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup, with the club now prepared to move faster in the transfer market. BBC Football and related reporting describe a fresh round of talks as the latest development, while other outlets frame the process as Chelsea moving closer to a potential agreement.
No source quoted in the provided material confirms that a deal has been reached, and details on personal terms, contract length, or timing are not specified. The reports therefore focus on the existence of talks and Palace’s valuation of Lacroix.
