Crystal Palace in Axel Disasi talks as Chelsea seek Maxence Lacroix transfer | OneFootball

Eagles want to sign French defender, who is free to leave Chelsea, as a replacement for Stamford Bridge-bound centre-back

Lacroix is the subject of interest from Chelsea, with Standard Sport reporting earlier this week that the Blues were in talks with Palace over a deal for the 26-year-old centre-back.

Palace are in a strong negotiating position, with three years still to run on Lacroix’s contract, but they have been assessing potential replacements for the French international all summer.

Disasi, who spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham, is said to be among a long list of candidates Palace have identified, and they are now in active negotiations over a deal.

The terms of a deal are unclear currently, but Standard Sport understands Chelsea would prefer a permanent sale and have placed a price tag of £25million plus add-ons on Disasi.

Disasi has not reported for pre-season training under new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso as the club tries to find a move for the 28-year-old.

West Ham are also reported to be interested in Disasi, who impressed during his short stint at the London Stadium, but it is believed that Disasi is not keen on playing in the Championship.

As Standard Sport reported last week, Palace also hold an interest in Augsburg centre-back Chrislain Matsima, though they have yet to hold any formal talks with the 23-year-old.

Palace are set to embark on a new era under manager Pierre Sage, who has been tasked with succeeding Oliver Glasner, after the Austrian left the club upon the expiry of his contract in June.