Chelsea are close to agreeing a deal with Crystal Palace to sign Maxence Lacroix.
The two Premier League clubs have been locked in negotiations over a permanent transfer for the France defender.
According to Sky Sports News, Crystal Palace are demanding a fee in excess of the £55 million Tottenham Hotspur paid Brighton for Jan Paul van Hecke before they will consider approving Maxence Lacroix’s transfer.
Palace value the defender highly and are determined to secure a premium deal before allowing him to leave.
Palace and Chelsea have maintained a strong working relationship in the transfer market, with previous deals involving players such as Trevoh Chalobah and Ben Chilwell highlighting the clubs’ willingness to conduct business when it aligns with their respective sporting objectives.
The Blues are in the market for a centre-back and ideally any new arrival would be physically imposing and bring Premier League experience.
Chelsea are able to make signings as they have raised around £130m from sales in this window.
