Chelsea are reportedly in talks with Crystal Palace over the signing of defender Maxence Lacroix. Palace is seeking a fee exceeding £55m, the amount Tottenham paid for Jan Paul van Hecke. The clubs have a history of successful transfers, including deals for Trevoh Chalobah and Ben Chilwell.

Chelsea are looking to strengthen their defense with a physically imposing player possessing Premier League experience. The club has generated approximately £130m from sales this window, with potential departures in defense including Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile, Malo Gusto, and Axel Disasi.

In separate news, Morgan Rogers is undergoing a medical for a potential British-record £117m move from Aston Villa to Chelsea. If the transfer is finalized, Rogers is expected to sign a six-year contract with an option for an additional year. This move would make Rogers Chelsea's record signing, surpassing the fee paid for Moises Caicedo.