7M - Chelsea Accelerate Negotiations with Crystal Palace for €70m-Rated Maxence Lacroix

Chelsea have opened direct ownership-level talks with Crystal Palace to sign French central defender Maxence Lacroix as they look to finalize their summer defensive rebuild, according to Sky Sports.

The 26-year-old France international, fresh off his World Cup campaign in North America, has emerged as a top defensive priority for head coach Enzo Maresca. Palace are seeking a transfer fee of at least £60m (€70m) for the former Wolfsburg star, who fits Chelsea's high-line, possession-oriented tactical blueprint due to his recovery pace, physical presence, and composure in buildup play. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue as the Blues push to close the deal.