7M - Chelsea still in talks for Lacroix but asking price rises, Arsenal also in race

Sources have provided an update on Chelsea's pursuit of Maxence Lacroix, with Arsenal and other clubs potentially entering the equation.

Crucially, there has been a lack of progress on the Blues' pursuit of Lacroix despite ongoing efforts to bring him to Stamford Bridge.

My understanding after conversations with well-connected figures in the agents industry is that Lacroix is keen on the move to Chelsea, and they have made him their top defensive target.

However, the issue appears to be at Crystal Palace's end, as they have now increased the France international's asking price from around €55m to more like €65-70m.

My suspicion here is that Palace would prefer a bidding war for Lacroix, so it is in their interests to drag this out a bit and see if they can secure more money for the player after his participation at the 2026 World Cup.

"Chelsea have made Lacroix their priority and efforts are still ongoing to get a deal done," one source said. "Palace won't make it easy, though, and their initial asking price of €55m has risen quite substantially.

"Palace are aware of other clubs circling. Arsenal have been monitoring his situation and they're now stepping up their interest in a new centre-back following William Saliba's injury. Look out for Liverpool, Manchester United, and Manchester City as well."

Could Arsenal beat Chelsea to Maxence Lacroix transfer?

Arsenal are also looking at Ezri Konsa, as we reported yesterday, while West Ham's Konstantinos Mavropanos has also been considered.

Lacroix certainly looks like another option, though, and the Gunners will no doubt feel a great deal of satisfaction if they can beat rivals Chelsea to his signature.

For now, the feeling is still that Chelsea are leading the race, but it is certainly not advancing as quickly as they would like, and that could let Arsenal and others back in.