Chelsea are eyeing a move for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix as they look to reshape their squad during the summer transfer window.

The Blues are keen on the 26-year-old French defender, according to reporter Ben Jacobs, who broke the news of Chelsea’s interest in the player.

Chelsea’s primary motivation for pursuing Lacroix is a desire to add more height and physicality to their defensive unit, which struggled at times last season.

Lacroix has enjoyed a remarkable campaign with Crystal Palace, helping the Eagles claim the UEFA Europa League title and adding the FA Cup and Community Shield to his trophy haul.

That level of consistent performance at the highest level has attracted attention from several top clubs, with Chelsea now among those monitoring his situation closely.

Crystal Palace will be reluctant to sanction another departure after allowing Marc Guehi to leave in January, having already lost an important defensive presence midseason.

The Eagles are set to compete in European football next season and will be desperate to hold onto their most influential players ahead of that challenge.

Palace’s hierarchy will be acutely aware of the damage that selling Lacroix could cause, particularly given how important he has been to their recent success.

From the player’s perspective, a move to Stamford Bridge would represent a significant step forward in his career, giving him the platform of one of world football’s most high-profile clubs.

Chelsea had a difficult campaign last year and failed to secure Champions League qualification, making it all the more important that they recruit wisely this summer.

The arrival of Xabi Alonso as manager signals a new direction for the club, with the former Real Madrid boss expected to identify and address the squad’s defensive shortcomings.

Ben Jacobs has also reported that Chelsea are keeping tabs on Como defender Jacobo Ramon, a young player who has attracted interest from multiple clubs in recent months.

If a deal for Lacroix proves too complicated to complete, Ramon could emerge as a credible and cost-effective alternative for Alonso’s rebuilding project.

Chelsea’s summer business will be watched closely, as the club looks to return to the top of English football under a manager with serious pedigree and ambition.

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