+18 | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Publishing Principles

CF Talavera de la Reina

CF Talavera de la Reina Overview

'Is he what Chelsea really needs?' - Desailly questions £52m Lacroix move

Chelsea are reportedly closing in on a £52 million deal for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix as Xabi Alonso looks to bolster his defence. However, Blues legend Marcel Desailly has voiced his concerns over the transfer, questioning whether the French international possesses the elite experience required at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea close to wrapping up £52m Lacroix signing

Chelsea are on the verge of completing a £52 million deal for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. The 26-year-old French international is set to undergo a medical before signing a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, while Palace actively seek a replacement ahead of the new campaign.

10 EPL transfers you might have missed during the World Cup

The transfer window usually dominates the back pages during the summer, but that's rarely the case in tournament years as the market is forced to take a back seat. Business never sleeps, however, and several deals have gone under the radar during the 2026 World Cup. After five-and-a-half weeks and some 104 matches, the big event is finally over, which means attention can now turn to the comings and goings at club level.

Palace set £55m Lacroix price for Chelsea

Chelsea have been informed that they will need to pay £55 million to prise Maxence Lacroix away from Crystal Palace this summer. The France international defender has emerged as a primary target for the Blues as they look to reshape their backline under the guidance of new manager Xabi Alonso.

Chalobah to reunite with Fabregas as Como

Como are reportedly on the verge of completing a deal for Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah ahead of Crystal Palace and Inter. The ambitious Serie A side have moved quickly to secure the centre-back, offering him the chance to play under the guidance of Chelsea cult hero Cesc Fabregas.

Crystal Palace FC v Rayo Vallecano de Madrid - UEFA Conference League Final 2026

Palace offer Mateta new deal

Crystal Palace have moved to secure the long-term future of Jean-Philippe Mateta by offering the striker a new contract extension. The south London club are determined to tie down their star forward to prevent any risk of a cut-price departure or a future free transfer.