Transfers: Chelsea line up move for Eagles star after agreeing Rogers deal
The Blues are preparing a move for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix after reaching an agreement to sign Rogers from Aston Villa.
The pursuit comes as Chelsea continue to adjust their squad under new manager Xabi Alonso.
With uncertainty surrounding the future of several current center-backs, Lacroix fits the specific profile Alonso wants, a technically proficient and tactically disciplined defender.
Meanwhile, Rogers’ imminent arrival from Aston Villa will add elite creativity to Chelsea's attacking options.
The Blues secured the 23-year-old England international by agreeing to a record-breaking £117 million fee, successfully beating Arsenal to his signature.
🚨 Chelsea remain in talks to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 18, 2026
Palace have raised their asking price from €55M to around €65M-€70M.
Arsenal are stepping up their interest, while Chelsea still lead the race.
(Source: @caughtoffside) pic.twitter.com/yVf08ugZ1y
Chelsea are willing to listen to offers for Tosin Adarabioyo and Trevoh Chalobah as Alonso looks to rebuild his defence for a Premier League challenge next season.
Lacroix is part of the France team that reached the semifinal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.