Chelsea are reportedly closing in on a deal for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, with personal terms said to have already been agreed as part of Xabi Alonso's ongoing squad rebuild at Stamford Bridge, according to English Premier League Index (Opta Stats).

The France international has emerged as a key defensive target for the Blues, who are understood to be pushing to finalise the move as negotiations progress between the two clubs. Lacroix has established himself as one of Palace's most reliable performers, and his potential departure would represent a significant boost for a Chelsea backline undergoing fresh scrutiny under Alonso's stewardship.

While talks are said to be advancing, the report stops short of confirming a full agreement between Chelsea and Crystal Palace on transfer fee or timeline, meaning the move remains in the works rather than done. Should it go through, Lacroix would become the latest addition in what appears to be a busy summer of incomings as Chelsea look to reshape their squad heading into the new season under their new manager's vision.