Chelsea is reportedly close to finalising a club-to-club agreement for the signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano indicated that the deal is in its final stages, with personal terms already agreed upon with Lacroix. The player is said to be eager to join Chelsea.
Discussions between the clubs have involved direct conversations with the ownership, including a meeting in New York before the World Cup final. Efforts are underway to conclude the deal swiftly, with an announcement potentially imminent.
Lacroix transfer details and player movements
Reports suggest that a deal for Maxence Lacroix is nearing completion. Alex Crook of talkSPORT mentioned that the overall package is expected to be substantial. Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish is reportedly managing the negotiations.
There had been speculation that Axel Disasi might move to Selhurst Park as part of the deal. However, Romano clarified that Disasi is not inclined to join Palace, and therefore, he is not part of the impending agreement that would send Lacroix to Chelsea.
Instead, reporter Ben Jacobs noted that Roma and Milan are two clubs that have made enquiries about Disasi. Chelsea is reportedly seeking a fee for Disasi, along with potential add-ons.
Palace is in active negotiations regarding Disasi, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at West Ham. Disasi has not participated in pre-season training under new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso as the club seeks to facilitate his move. West Ham is also reportedly interested in Disasi, though he is believed to be disinclined to play in the Championship.
Chelsea’s transfer strategy and other targets
Chelsea is focusing on acquiring players who can make an immediate impact, alongside investing in younger talent. This approach is evident with the arrival of Morgan Rogers, who was described as Aston Villa’s top performer over the past two seasons. The club also recently spent on Marco Palestra.
A new centre-back capable of integrating directly into the squad is a priority, with Lacroix being a primary target. Chelsea has been interested in the France international for some time, and while talks with Crystal Palace have been challenging, there is optimism that a deal can be reached. Palace is reportedly seeking a significant fee for the 26-year-old, who is open to leaving Selhurst Park this summer.
Other central defensive targets for Chelsea include Jacobo Ramon from Como. The club might also sign another centre-back before the transfer deadline in September, especially if there are departures in that area. Trevoh Chalobah is currently in negotiations between Como and Chelsea and is expected to depart this summer, while other defenders also face uncertain futures at Stamford Bridge.
Former Manchester City defender John Stones, who left Manchester City last month, has been offered to Chelsea. The club holds an interest in Stones, but he is one of several targets. Chelsea’s recruitment model has shifted this transfer window, moving away from a youth-only strategy to bring in more experienced players alongside promising young talent.
Aston Villa is interested in signing Nicolas Jackson, whose name arose during discussions for Rogers. Chelsea plans to give Jackson an opportunity to impress Xabi Alonso during pre-season but remains open to offers at the right price. Alejandro Garnacho is also a target for Aston Villa, with the Villans progressing on a loan deal for the Chelsea winger, which includes a conditional obligation to buy. Garnacho is reportedly open to moving to Villa Park to work under Unai Emery.
Crystal Palace, under new manager Pierre Sage, is assessing potential replacements for the French international Lacroix. Sage has been tasked with succeeding Oliver Glasner, who left the club in June upon the expiry of his contract.
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Source: football365.com
