Jan Paul van Hecke was a Villa targetImago
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21 Jul 2026, 11:00 am
Chelsea and Arsenal have been warned that Crystal Palace will drive a high price if they are to sell Maxence Lacroix this summer.
Both Premier League giants are plotting moves to sign the 26-year-old, with Chelsea's interest the most advanced after holding talks with the Palace hierarchy.
Despite reports that an offer of around £55million could be accepted by the Eagles, their true asking price is expected to be as much as £10million more. at £65million.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Crystal Palace are determined not to lose Lacroix and will only accept offers on their terms.
The France international has been a crucial part of the side that lifted the FA Cup and Conference League, and with three years left on his contract, will not be let go easily.
After Brighton commanded a £55million fee when they sold Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham, their rivals now believe Lacroix is worth more given his contract situation.
Will Crystal Palace accept offers for Maxence Lacroix?
Brown told Football Insider last month that Crystal Palace would demand a minimum of £60million for Lacroix and could drive his price tag up further with growing interest.
Chelsea's decision to push forward in talks has led to some suggestions of a reduced fee, but the Eagles are prepared to stand by their lofty asking price.
A fee between £60million and £70million is likely to be accepted after negotiations, and while Palace are reluctant to lose Lacroix, they believe he can be replaced.
"Crystal Palace are in a strong position to decide Lacroix's future," Brown told Football Insider.
"He's still got three years left on his contract, he's a France international, an FA Cup winner and a Conference League winner, so it's going to cost a big fee to let him go.
"When you look at Van Hecke going to Tottenham for £55million, I would say Lacroix is comfortably in the next tier above him, so we're talking about 60, 65, 70million to let him go.
"I think in the middle of that would probably be the sweet spot for Palace, they want around £65million. If they can get more, fantastic, if it's less then it's not the end of the world.
"I think Lacroix is a real top-class Premier League defender, he's gone from strength to strength since he joined Crystal Palace and dismissed any doubts.
"I watched him a lot when he was at Wolfsburg, but I wasn't quite sure he would make it in England. Crystal Palace gave him that chance and they've reaped the rewards.
"So it's not surprise you've got clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal sniffing around, and if they're willing to meet the price Crystal Palace want, I expect he will move on."
Where is Lacroix's most likely destination as things stand?
Despite interest from both Chelsea and Arsenal, as well as clubs in Europe keeping a close eye on his situation, much will depend on who is willing to meet the asking price.
Arsenal's interest comes in the wake of William Saliba's back injury, which could keep him out of action for as long as five months, forcing them into the transfer market.
However, Football Insider revealed last month that Lacroix has emerged as a top target for Chelsea, and Xabi Alonso's side are keen to get a deal over the line.
The Blues have now held talks with Crystal Palace to assess the possibility of a move, and are expected to push forward in their pursuit in the coming days and weeks.
Should they be willing to meet the Eagles' asking price, the defender is believed to be keen on a move to Stamford Bridge to further his career.