Crystal Palace and Chelsea are reportedly moving closer to an agreement for Maxence Lacroix after the Blues increased their offer to £52m.
Chelsea have edged towards Palace’s valuation, but the Eagles are continuing to demand more for the France international.
Alan Nixon reports that Palace are prepared to sell Lacroix once Chelsea meet their cash valuation. The clubs are keeping any potential player exchanges separate from the centre-back negotiations.
That approach allows Palace to secure the strongest possible guaranteed fee before considering whether a Chelsea player could move in the opposite direction.
Palace remain in control of Lacroix negotiations
Lacroix still has three years remaining on his contract at Selhurst Park, leaving Palace under no pressure to accept Chelsea’s current proposal.
The Times previously reported that Palace valued the 26-year-old at more than £55m following his outstanding 2025/26 campaign.
Chelsea’s latest offer has narrowed the gap, but the Eagles can continue pushing for their full asking price.
As Read Crystal Palace reported on Saturday, recent Premier League centre-back deals have strengthened Palace’s negotiating position.
Lacroix has also increased his reputation through his performances for France at the World Cup. He remains one of Pierre Sage’s most important defenders following Marc Guéhi’s departure in January.
Chelsea must still agree personal terms with Lacroix. Nixon claims the Blues would need to offer him a significant wage increase because they cannot provide European football next season.
The negotiations now appear to be centred on a relatively small difference in valuation. Palace look ready to approve the move, but only after Chelsea produce an offer reflecting Lacroix’s status and contract position.
