Chelsea could lose one of their reliable defenders as a consequence of signing Maxence Lacroix. The Blues knew they needed to improve their defence this summer, and despite pleas from previous managers going unanswered, Xabi Alonso has indeed been offered the chance to strengthen his back line.
Crystal Palace star Lacroix was quickly identified as the lead target, with the France World Cup star having already proven himself at Premier League level, while he is still only 26 years of age, meaning he will likely retain value. That's something that means a great deal in the current Chelsea recruitment strategy.
A deal worth £51million has now reportedly been agreed between Chelsea and Palace, but it is not good news for everyone.
Chelsea could now lose Trevoh Chalobah
Trevoh Chalobah (England)REUTERS/Mike Segar
Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah is expected to leave the club this summer as a consequence of the expected arrival of Lacroix. The England international has been a reliable player for the Blues, but he is not seen as a defender who belongs at the very top level.
And according to former Premier League scout Mick Brown, it's likely Palace have asked about the possibility of signing Chalobah during the Lacroix talks. He told Football Insider: "Crystal Palace are going to need to replace Lacroix, that is clear. If he's going to Chelsea, then it's going to be a big blow for Palace, because he has been such an important part of the success they've had in recent seasons.
"I expect that while they've been in talks with Chelsea, they will have asked about Trevoh Chalobah and whether he might be available. It looks now like he's going to make the move to Italy, but it's something I expect Crystal Palace have explored because they know him well and rate him very highly.
"He spent a few months at Palace a couple of seasons ago, and I'm led to believe everybody involved was a bit disappointed when he was recalled, despite how it ended up. Given it appears Chalobah is available, it would be more surprising if Palace hadn't considered a move, because we all know they will need a new centre-back."
Chalobah one of Chelsea's 'brightest spots'
Trevoh Chalobah
Chalobah has been a largely steady player since he returned from that loan spell with Crystal Palace. Former Chelsea boss Liam ROsenior said last season: "Trevoh has been one of our brightest spots in terms of his performances and in terms of what he understands, not just on the pitch and tactically, but in terms of the culture and what he gives the group. He loves this club. He understands what it takes to win and he's made a fantastic impression on my staff and me so far.”
TalkSport pundit Jason Cundy added: "He’s been brilliant. He’s gone under the radar a little bit because of how good we’ve been with the ball. He’s been excellent Chalobah. He deserves a special mention from me.”
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