Chelsea Transfer News Today: Maxence Lacroix signing close as official bid made

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Tom Weber | Writer

Multilingual sports writer who specialises in European football and American soccer.

All the latest Chelsea transfer news in one place, including updates on Maxence Lacroix, Alejandro Garnacho and John Stones.

Laxcroix pursuit accelerates

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, as per the Daily Mail.

A formal meeting between Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali and Palace chairman Steve Parish took place in New York on Sunday, during which the former offered to pay €65 million for the France international.

Palace are believed to be holding out for a fee in the region of €70m, but the gap in valuation is not thought to be insurmountable. Chelsea are "determined" to sign the centre-back and an agreement appears to be a matter of time.

Garnacho bid made

Aston Villa have made a formal offer for Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Birmingham club are keen to sign the Argentine on an initial loan deal with a permanent element. Chelsea favour an outright sale, but discussions are ongoing in a bid to find common ground.

The 22-year-old is deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge despite only arriving last year. Chelsea have already knocked back loan offers from AS Roma. They may be more malleable in talks with Villa given that they have just signed Morgan Rogers from the Birmingham side.

Chelsea eye Stones

Chelsea are among the clubs mulling over a possible move for former Man City defender John Stones, The Athletic reports.

The England defender is a free agent following the expiration of his contract at the Etihad. Stones was recently linked with a surprising move to Arsenal, but Chelsea are now also in the race.

New manager Xabi Alonso is keen to add experience to his side, and centre-back is one position he is desperate to strengthen. In fact, Chelsea could sign as many as two players for that position this summer.

Summerville set for Saudi

Al-Hilal have blown the competition out of the water with an €80m bid for West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville, David Ornstein understands.

The offer has been accepted by the Hammers, whose previous asking price reportedly stood at just under €60m. AS Roma made three unsuccessful bids below €50m for the Netherlands international, while Chelsea and Man Utd were also interested.

The final green light for the transfer has not yet been given, but a medical has already been scheduled, and a long-term contract is ready for the 24-year-old winger.