Chelsea to step up pursuit of Maxence Lacroix as Chalobah exit looms

Chelsea are preparing to accelerate their pursuit of Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix as they look to bolster their defence for next season. The club want to add at least one new centre-back to compete alongside Levi Colwill, with Lacroix viewed as an ideal candidate.

He has spent two seasons at Palace, won the FA Cup and the Conference League, and has three years remaining on his contract. To help part-fund the move, Chelsea could sell Trevoh Chalobah to Serie A side Como, who are ready to submit a concrete bid. Chalobah is currently with the England squad at the World Cup following the withdrawal of Tino Livramento, and Como head coach Cesc Fabregas is familiar with him from their time at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are not actively forcing Chalobah out but are open to listening to offers that match their valuation. Chalobah previously spent half a season on loan at Palace, which adds an intriguing dynamic to any negotiations over Lacroix.

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