Chelsea ‘told to cough up £55million for France World Cup star, 26, who is set for rare start against England TONIGHT’

CHELSEA target Maxence Lacroix is valued at £55million by Crystal Palace, according to reports. The Blues want to recruit the France international as they look to bolster their defence for new boss Xabi Alonso. Maxence Lacroix has been in World Cup action for France Credit: Shutterstock Editorial The centre-back helped Crystal Palace to Conference League glory last season Credit: Getty Lacroix, 26, has impressed in the Premier League since moving to Selhurst Park from Wolfsburg two years ago. According to The Times, the centre-back has indicated that he would like to leave Palace for a new challenge this summer – but he won’t come cheap. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Having seen Jan Paul van Hecke and Luka Vuskovic move for more than £50m apiece, Palace believe that Lacroix should command at least £55m. The in-demand star has three years remaining on his £60,000-a-week contract, giving Palace some leverage. Lacroix is set to start for France against England in the World Cup third place play-off, in the absence of injured Arsenal defender William Saliba. He could come up against his former Palace centre-back partner Marc Guehi, who was sold to Manchester City in January. Chelsea, meanwhile, want to sell Axel Disasi permanently – having loaned him to both Aston Villa and West Ham in the last 18 months. Former Palace loanee Trevoh Chalobah could also depart, with Italian side Como keen. Most read in Football WORLD CUP 2026 FREE BETS AND SIGN UP OFFERS Chelsea have already bolstered their back line with the £43m addition of Marco Palestra from Atalanta. Palace, meanwhile, have brought in former Barcelona star Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer. And they are also keen on Chrislain Matsima from Augsburg. Pierre Sage’s side began their pre season campaign earlier today, beating Swindon 5-1 behind closed doors. Comment now