Chelsea has initiated discussions to acquire Maxence Lacroix, the Crystal Palace centre-back, as manager Xabi Alonso aims to revamp his defense this summer.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the club is considering Lacroix among several centre-back options at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea plans to sign at least one new central defender, potentially two, contingent upon departures before the transfer window closes. This defensive upgrade is crucial as the club has already been active in enhancing other squad areas.

Lacroix presents an appealing choice for Chelsea due to his:

• Premier League experience
• Ability to defend aggressively in a high line
• Speed and strength in duels
• Comfort in a possession-based system

Reports from The Telegraph indicate that Chelsea is set to intensify their pursuit, while the Evening Standard mentions the possibility of selling Trevoh Chalobah if a suitable offer materializes. Chalobah's future is pivotal, as he garners interest from clubs in Italy, including Como. His departure could also provide financial benefits for Chelsea due to his status as an academy graduate.

Lacroix isn't the only defender under consideration, but he stands out as a realistic option with proven Premier League capabilities. This strategic move aligns with Alonso’s need for defenders who can cover ground effectively, defend one-on-one, and contribute to building attacks. As talks progress, Chelsea's defensive signings will likely hinge on Chalobah's situation.