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Crystal Palace ‘in talks’ to sign France international as replacement for Maxence Lacroix

Crystal Palace look set to lose another key figure this summer, with Maxence Lacroix edging ever closer to a move to Chelsea.

The 26-year-old French defender is expected to complete his switch to Stamford Bridge now that his World Cup campaign has concluded, with the Blues set to pay around €61 million for his signature.

Lacroix is also expected to sign a contract running until 2031.

With Pierre Sage facing the prospect of replacing yet another influential defender, Palace have already identified a potential successor — and he could arrive as part of the same negotiations.

Palace “In Talks” for Disasi

According to The Telegraph, Crystal Palace are in discussions over a deal for Axel Disasi as negotiations with Chelsea over Lacroix continue.

The report states that the two clubs have explored the possibility of the France international joining Palace on a season-long loan, with Disasi’s future at Stamford Bridge remaining uncertain.

The 28-year-old has endured a difficult spell since arriving from Monaco for £38.5 million in 2023. After loan spells with Aston Villa and, more recently, West Ham, where he made 17 appearances during the Hammers’ relegation campaign, Disasi has returned to Chelsea to assess his next move.

Despite still having three years left on his contract, Chelsea are understood to be open to temporary solutions, while Palace are keen to strengthen at centre-back following Marc Guéhi’s departure last year and Lacroix’s imminent exit.

A loan move could therefore suit all parties as talks continue.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider. Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.

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