Como have submitted an improved £25 million offer for Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah, as the Blues prepare to complete the £52 million signing of Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, according to reports.
Lacroix deal nears completion
Lacroix informed Crystal Palace of his desire to leave at the end of last season, with Chelsea quickly emerging as frontrunners for his signature. Talks have accelerated over the past week, and the France international is now set to finalise a £52 million move across London. The transfer would make Lacroix Chelsea's third signing since Xabi Alonso took over as head coach, following the arrivals of Marco Palestra and Morgan Rogers.
Chalobah attracts Serie A interest
Lacroix's arrival may pave the way for another defender's departure, with Trevoh Chalobah attracting significant interest from Serie A side Como. The 27-year-old, who recently represented England at the World Cup, is reportedly keen on the move and eager to work under Cesc Fabregas. However, Chelsea have already rejected one bid for the academy graduate.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Como have now returned with a second offer worth around £22 million, with an additional £3 million available in achievable add-ons. Chelsea value Chalobah closer to £30 million and are expected to turn down this latest proposal. Chalobah has made 151 appearances for Chelsea since coming through the club's academy and remains under contract at Stamford Bridge until the summer of 2028.
Summer departures continue
The Blues have already sanctioned the exit of four first-team players this summer. Alejandro Garnacho was the latest to leave, joining Aston Villa on an initial loan with an option to buy. Tyrique George and Andrey Santos have also departed for Premier League rivals, moving to Everton and Manchester United respectively. Marc Cucurella has returned to Spain after Real Madrid agreed a £51.8 million deal for the World Cup winner.
Uncertain futures for Jackson and Fernandez
Nicolas Jackson's future remains uncertain, with Aston Villa manager Unai Emery keen to reunite with the striker following their successful spell together at Villarreal. Enzo Fernandez also faces an uncertain future after making it clear to the club that he would like a fresh challenge next season. When asked about Fernandez's future at his unveiling, Alonso stated: 'Yes, we have spoken, but as you can understand, what we have spoken remains private.'
