UMVA has learned that Chelsea and Arsenal are preparing to make a splash in the transfer market by targeting Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.
The French centre-back has been a key player for Palace since joining from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg two years ago, helping the team win the FA Cup, the Community Shield, and the Europa Conference League. However, speculation is growing that Lacroix could be set to leave Selhurst Park, with several top clubs keeping a close eye on his situation.
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is keen to strengthen his team's defence, and Lacroix has been added to their shortlist of potential targets. Alonso is expected to play with a back three in a 3-4-2-1 formation, and Chelsea's hierarchy is scouring the transfer market for reinforcements to support their new manager's plans.
Lacroix has made a total of 55 appearances in all competitions for Palace last season, and there are growing fears that his farewell match could have been the recent Europa Conference League final. The defender is currently away with France at the World Cup, and his future at Palace remains uncertain.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Lacroix is not yet ready to commit his future to Palace and is keen to assess what offers arise over the coming months. Premier League champions Arsenal and Real Madrid are also credited with a strong interest in signing the defender, and a bidding war could break out this summer.
Palace's hierarchy is reluctant to part with Lacroix, but a sale cannot be ruled out if a substantial offer comes in from a potential suitor. The club is reportedly demanding a fee of £50million for the centre-half, who has a contract that runs through to June 2029.
Lacroix has spoken highly of his time at Palace, saying that he's proud of the journey and what the team has achieved. He also praised the role of Palace fans in the team's success, saying that they were like a 12th player on the pitch.
