Chelsea have discovered the new asking price for Crystal Palace defender and France World Cup star Maxence Lacroix, with the Blues now needing to pay at least £55 million to secure his signature.
Xabi Alonso identifies Lacroix as top target
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso quickly identified Lacroix as a primary target for the summer transfer window. However, negotiations had to wait until after the World Cup. The centre-back has made two appearances in North America, most recently coming off the bench for the injured William Saliba in France's 2-0 semi-final loss to Spain.
Lacroix is expected to start for France against England in the third-place play-off on Saturday, after which Chelsea will begin their efforts to sign him.
Palace's valuation rises to £55m
Earlier reports suggested an offer of under £50 million would be enough for Crystal Palace to part with their vice-captain, but that is no longer the case. According to The Times, Palace's valuation is partly based on recent transfers for other Premier League centre-backs, including Tottenham paying Brighton £52 million for Jan Paul van Hecke.
As a result, Palace will demand at least £55 million for Lacroix, and even this seems cheap for a player who still has three years left on his contract. Lacroix moved to Selhurst Park two years ago from Wolfsburg for £18 million, playing a key role in winning the FA Cup, Community Shield, and UEFA Conference League – the first trophies in Palace's history.
Lacroix wants Chelsea move
Understandably, the Eagles, now under the guidance of Pierre Sage, do not want to lose the 26-year-old, but he has privately indicated his desire to move to Stamford Bridge. Additionally, Palace have identified Augsburg's Chrislain Matsima as a potential replacement, though the south Londoners were always planning to sign a new centre-back this summer as they prepare for their Europa League debut.
Alonso has hinted that he will line Chelsea up in a back-three formation, which Lacroix is accustomed to, hence their interest.
Chelsea need to trim squad
With no European football this season, Chelsea must trim their squad, with centre-backs Axel Disasi and Trevoh Chalobah on the transfer list. England World Cup star Chalobah has been offered to Palace but has instead agreed personal terms with Como, with the Serie A side negotiating a fee with Chelsea. Sky Italy reports that a deal is close but there is still a €10 million (£8.5 million) difference in their valuations.
