Chelsea are advancing in their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, with substantial progress reported in negotiations for the 26-year-old French international.
The London club have already agreed personal terms with the player’s representatives, and Lacroix is understood to be eager for the move this summer.
Chelsea finished last season with defensive frailties that undermined their campaign, and reinforcing the back line has become a priority for the squad’s rebuild.
Lacroix has demonstrated consistent quality in the Premier League with Crystal Palace and is regarded as a player capable of strengthening a top-tier defence immediately.
The proposed transfer is expected to cost around £55 million, though it remains unclear whether the two London clubs can agree on a fee.
Arsenal have also been linked with interest in the defender but have not opened talks with Crystal Palace, a notable stance given their already solid defensive unit.
For Lacroix, a move to Chelsea would arrive at the peak of his career and offer the chance to compete for major honours at one of the world’s largest clubs.
Whether Chelsea submit an acceptable offer remains the decisive factor in a transfer race that continues to develop.
