Chelsea have intensified their pursuit of Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, with a fresh round of talks between the ownership groups of both clubs described as encouraging.

Palace are holding out for a minimum fee of £60 million for the 26-year-old, who has three years remaining on his current contract. Despite the club's desire to extend that deal, Lacroix is reportedly eager to take on a new challenge elsewhere.

Lacroix's record at Palace

The French defender joined Crystal Palace from Wolfsburg in August 2024 in a deal worth up to £18 million, and has since made 98 appearances for The Eagles. His consistent performances at Selhurst Park — including representing France at the World Cup — have made him one of the most coveted centre-backs in the Premier League.

Chelsea are targeting players with top-flight English experience this summer, and Lacroix fits that profile precisely. The proposed transfer is being managed at ownership level by both clubs, underlining the seriousness of Chelsea's interest.

Palace eye Matsima as potential replacement

Crystal Palace have already begun identifying possible successors should Lacroix depart, with Augsburg's Chrislain Matsima among those being monitored as a replacement option.

Rogers deal and Chalobah's future

Chelsea's recruitment drive does not stop at Lacroix. The west London club are also close to finalising a £117 million move for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers, signalling an ambitious summer overhaul at Stamford Bridge.

Should Chelsea secure Lacroix, the future of defender Trevoh Chalobah — who has attracted interest from Como — is likely to become increasingly uncertain at the club.