Chelsea are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, with talkSPORT stating that formal talks have opened between the two clubs over a potential summer move.
According to the report, cited by English Premier League Index, Palace are demanding as much as £55m for the France international, a figure that reflects the growing esteem in which Lacroix is held following his performances at the heart of the Eagles' defence.
The 25-year-old has established himself as a key figure at Selhurst Park, and Chelsea are said to view him as a strong option to bolster their backline as Enzo Maresca looks to add further depth and quality to his squad.
While talks are understood to be progressing, no agreement has yet been reached, and Palace's valuation could prove a sticking point in negotiations. Chelsea's interest, though, suggests Lacroix is firmly on their shortlist as one of the names they hope to add before the transfer window closes.