Chelsea identify Premier League star as 'main target' for summer transfer window

23 Jun 2026 10:26 BST | 4 min read

Suraj Radia | Editor

Chelsea have identified Crystal Palace star Maxence Lacroix as one of their ‘main targets’ to strengthen in defence this summer.

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The Blues are looking to adapt their transfer policy and bring in more experienced players this summer, having previously only targeted young and unproven talent from around the world.

According to The Athletic, Chelsea want a minimum of ‘two ready-made players’ with experience of playing in the top five European leagues, leading to the interest in Lacroix.

Current ETV

Maxence Lacroix

D (C)

C. Palace

Maxence Lacroix

D (C)

C. Palace

ETV Range

€46.4M - €56.8M

The 26-year-old joined Palace in 2024 for €20m and has become a key figure in their defence, although the Eagles are said to be open to his departure for the right price if they can find a replacement.

Lacroix is one of ‘three or four’ other names being considered by Chelsea, who have outlined a defender as a key priority, particularly after the sale of Marc Cucurella earlier this month.

Palace are under no pressure to sell a player who has three years remaining on his contract and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea make a formal move for Lacroix but the Frenchman is certainly on the club’s shortlist going into the summer.

Chelsea set to revamp defence after expressing interest in Lacroix

Chelsea may step up their chase for a defender after receiving interest from Como in Trevoh Chalobah, <b>although Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the two clubs are far apart in a valuation so far.

© IMAGO - Maxence Lacroix is wanted by Chelsea.

With Chelsea not playing in Europe next season, the club will be focused on getting rid of a number of fringe players before they can go full steam ahead with incomings.

The long-term future of Wesley Fofana is also believed to be uncertain, while decisions will need to be made over Aaron Anselmino and Mamadou Sarr, with unwanted duo Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi also expected to be sold this summer.

Chelsea could therefore be required to sign multiple defenders during the window and make the position a priority ahead of the arrival of new manager Xabi Alonso in July.

Valentin Barco is expected to sign from affiliate side Strasbourg, although a deal has yet to be formally agreed, while Sporting youngster Geovany Quenda could also provide depth out wide when he arrives next month.

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Read more about: Premier League C. Palace Chelsea Aarón Anselmino Axel Disasi Benoit Badiashile Geovany Quenda Mamadou Sarr Marc Cucurella Maxence Lacroix Trevoh Chalobah Valentín Barco Wesley Fofana