Chelsea are targeting Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix this summer, with the France international emerging as a priority for the Blues' defensive overhaul. Standard Sport understands that Lacroix features prominently on Chelsea’s list of centre-back targets, although no serious talks have yet taken place.
Defensive Reinforcements Needed
Defence is a key area for Chelsea to strengthen, following the sale of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid. The club’s recruitment team has identified centre-back as a position in need of improvement. Chelsea are expected to make multiple first-team signings this summer, with at least two players likely to walk straight into Xabi Alonso’s starting line-up.
Lacroix's Rise at Palace
Lacroix was a crucial part of the Eagles’ defence as they won the FA Cup final in the 2024-25 season — the club’s first major piece of silverware. After the sale of Marc Guehi to Manchester City in January, Lacroix assumed greater responsibility and helped the team win the Conference League in their first-ever season in major European competition. Palace are under no financial pressure to sell, but a move for Lacroix would instantly raise the centre-back standards at Stamford Bridge.
Other Defensive Targets
January interest in Jacobo Ramon remains after an impressive season at Serie A side Como, who are monitoring Trevoh Chalobah’s situation. Chalobah was Chelsea’s most consistent central defender last season, but the Blues are open to selling him for the right price this summer.
Midfield Interest Goes Quiet
Standard Sport reported on Monday that Chelsea have gone quiet on previous interest in Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall — who wants to leave Spurs — and that no talks between Chelsea and Atalanta have taken place over Marco Palestra, the wing-back who had been linked with the Blues in reports from Italy.
