---
title: "Chelsea hold ‘formal talks’ over transfer of World Cup “leader”"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/chelsea-maxence-lacroix-transfer-talks/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Barnaby Lane"
section: "Chelsea Transfer Rumours"
published: "2026-07-20T12:28:50Z"
modified: "2026-07-20T12:28:55Z"
---

# Chelsea hold ‘formal talks’ over transfer of World Cup “leader”

The 2026 World Cup has now reached its conclusion, with Spain crowned champions after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final thanks to a late goal from Ferran Torres.

England secured a third-place finish, while France ended the tournament in fourth after a thrilling 6-4 defeat to the Three Lions in the bronze medal match.

Now, [Chelsea](https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours/) appear ready to make a move for one of France’s standout defenders from that clash.

## **Chelsea Hold Formal Lacroix Talks**

[According to talkSPORT](https://talksport.com/football/4441021/chelsea-talks-crystal-palace-maxence-lacroix-transfer-news/), Chelsea have opened formal discussions with Crystal Palace over a potential deal for Maxence Lacroix.

[The Eagles are demanding at least £55 million for the France international](https://chelseanews.com/blog/chelsea-transfer-news-maxence-lacroix-4/), with chairman Steve Parish determined to secure a significant fee for a player who has become a key figure for the club in recent years.

Lacroix, who has been [described as a “leader” by former Palace boss Oliver Glasner](https://www.tribalfootball.com/article/soccer-premier-league-glasner-lacroix-already-proving-himself-as-palace-leader-741c0260-03ee-4ac0-8b6a-958a77d9ab61), is attracting serious interest from Stamford Bridge as Chelsea look to strengthen their defence under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Palace are reportedly using Jan Paul van Hecke’s £52m move from Brighton to Tottenham as a benchmark when assessing Lacroix’s value.

The Blues have previously explored the possibility of including fringe players as part of a deal, while Lacroix himself is believed to be open to a move to west London despite Palace’s desire to keep him.

The 26-year-old joined France’s World Cup squad and featured during their run to the latter stages, starting the dramatic third-place playoff against England.

Since arriving from VfL Wolfsburg in 2024, Lacroix has made 98 appearances for Palace, helping the club win the FA Cup, Conference League and Community Shield.