Chelsea have taken their search for a new centre-back to a more serious stage, opening talks with Crystal Palace for a defender who has already shown he can cope with the speed and physical demands of the Premier League.
The Blues are looking for more speed, aggression and reliability in the heart of their defence, and Arsenal’s presence at the back raises the possibility of another transfer battle in London.
This situation is unlikely to be resolved easily.
Palace appear to be in a better position in negotiations and determined to use recent Premier League defender fees as a benchmark, with Chelsea having to decide whether this is a preferred deal or another deal that will require patience.
Chelsea talks begin as Palace set firm valuation
Chelsea are currently in formal negotiations with Crystal Palace over Maxence Lacroix, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
Arsenal also rate the France international highly, but the Gunners are not yet interested at the same stage.
Palace value the centre-back at more than £55m. The Times also reports that Chelsea would need to pay more than £55m to sign Lacroix, and with the defender still having three years left on his contract, there is little pressure on Palace to sell him.
This price reflects both LaCroix’s importance and the current market.
His recovery speed, Premier League experience and ability to defend wide spaces are particularly valuable qualities for a team expected to use a high defensive line.
Interest in Arsenal puts further pressure on sluggish negotiations
Palace are reportedly eyeing a move for Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton to Tottenham.
Sky Sports have confirmed that Spurs paid £52m for the Dutch centre-back despite having just one year left on his Brighton contract. Lacroix’s long-term deal will allow Palace to justify a demand of more than £55m.
Chelsea need to move forward but avoid paying the price of panic.
Lacroix appears to fit well with the team’s need for a quick, aggressive and physical centre-back, but formal negotiations suggest he is considered more than just another name on a short list.
Arsenal’s praise makes the situation more urgent, but Chelsea should not be forced into an unnecessary bidding war.
A structured package close to Palace’s valuation could represent smart business, but Chelsea will need to be prepared to walk away if the final price increases significantly beyond £55m.
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