Fabrizio Romano reveals Chelsea ‘working behind the scenes’ on next deal
Chelsea are hoping to sign a new centre-back before the start of the new 2026-27 season.
The Blues have already bid farewell to several players. Marc Cucurella has joined Real Madrid with Andrey Santos linking up with Michael Carrick at Manchester United and Tyrique George moving to Everton.
There will probably be even more outgoings, but more incomings are also expected.
So far, Marco Palestra is the Blues’ only addition this summer, but Fabrizio Romano has hinted another could be coming through the door sooner rather than later.
Fabrizio Romano confirms Chelsea ‘working’ on next big signing
Chelsea have been heavily linked with Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix.
Lacroix is away with France at the World Cup, but after Les Bleus crashed out in the semi-finals to Spain on Tuesday, Chelsea’s interest is set to accelerate.
Crystal Palace value the Frenchman at £60 million, and so far, no agreement has been reached, but Romano insists Chelsea haven’t given up.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: “I want to return on a name I made here at the end of June and remains on Chelsea shortlist, and it’s the name of Maxence Lacroix.
“Chelsea are still working behind the scenes on the deal for Maxence Lacroix.
“He’s in the list. He’s one of the most appreciated centre-backs at Chelsea.
“Chelsea contacts already took place on club side and on agent side. So, Chelsea remain very keen on Maxence Lacroix.
“Chelsea want to add one centre-back, could be two, based on exits, and Maxence Lacroix is one of the players, who remains on the very top of their list.”
Lacroix has three years left on his contract at Selhurst Park and is eager to make the move to Stamford Bridge.
Maxence Lacroix would be a statement signing
After Chelsea’s poor 10th place finish last season, the side will not be playing European football of any kind next time out.
Naturally, this has damaged their reputation and will make attracting the best players difficult.
Lacroix seems to be a bit different though. The 26-year-old is undoubtedly one of the Premier League’s most consistent centre-backs. He also played a key role in the Eagles winning the UEFA Conference League last season.
If Chelsea can meet Palace’s demands and convince the player to join their project, Lacroix would have the potential to be one of Xabi Alonso’s most impressive signings.
During his two years at Selhurst Park, Lacroix has been directly involved in eight goals in 98 matches in all competitions.
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