Chelsea has reportedly expressed interest in Maxence Lacroix, the 26‑year‑old centre‑back of the Premier League club.
An earlier offer below £50 million was considered sufficient, but recent developments suggest the club may need to increase its bid.
The club’s valuation of Lacroix is influenced by recent market activity, including a £52 million purchase of a centre‑back by another Premier League side.
Palace now demands at least £55 million, a figure that remains reasonable given the player’s remaining three years on contract.
Lacroix transferred to Palace from Wolfsburg for £18 million two seasons ago, and has been instrumental in securing the club’s first FA Cup, Community Shield, and UEFA Conference League titles.
Under the guidance of the new manager, Palace is reluctant to lose the player, yet he has privately expressed a desire to move to Stamford Bridge.
The club has identified Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima as a potential replacement, while also planning to sign a new centre‑back ahead of their Europa League
