Chelsea in ‘Ongoing Talks’ with Crystal Palace for Maxence Lacroix Transfer
Ben Jacobs has reported that Chelsea are escalating their interest in Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, with the clubs now in ongoing talks over a potential summer move.
The 26-year-old France international was linked with Liverpool last summer as a possible defensive reinforcement, though Marc Guehi ultimately remained the priority target for the Reds.
Chelsea closing in on Lacroix
France defender Maxence Lacroix controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Bronze Final between France and England at Miami Stadium on July 18, 2026. (Photo by JC Ruiz/Sipa USA)
It appears former scout Mick Brown’s earlier prediction has come to fruition, with Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea now pushing hard to bring the experienced centre-back to Stamford Bridge.
Liverpool’s focus elsewhere
Meanwhile, Liverpool remain heavily focused on finalising the parameters of a deal to bring Bradley Barcola to Anfield this summer.
However, there is growing concern among supporters that the Reds are heading into the 2026/27 Premier League season with a worryingly thin defensive squad.
Jeremy Jaquet is an exciting young talent with huge potential, and pairing him with Virgil van Dijk will be fascinating to watch. Yet questions remain over fitness and depth. Andoni Iraola has already stated that Giovanni Leoni is not yet at full match fitness, while Joe Gomez’s reliability over a long campaign cannot be taken for granted.
Liverpool need a centre-half
A more experienced, streetwise Premier League-proven defender would significantly ease the pressure on the two younger centre-backs. At 26, with 70 Premier League appearances already under his belt, Lacroix would represent a solid, ready-made option.
Liverpool had shown interest in the Frenchman during his Wolfsburg days, so the profile clearly fits. That said, the reported £55m valuation feels steep for what he offers, and many fans would prefer the recruitment team to identify a similar quality player for closer to £25-30m.
The bigger worry is the prospect of yet another bedding-in period for a new centre-back from abroad, when stability at the back feels like a priority this summer. Still, Lacroix is a player who understands the physical and tactical demands of the Premier League
