Crystal Palace make first move to sign Charlie Cresswell as Chelsea plot Maxence Lacroix bid | OneFootball

Amid interest in the France star, the Eagles step up the search for his replacement

Crystal Palace have opened talks with Charlie Cresswell’s representatives over a potential move for the Toulouse defender.

Standard Sport understands Palace are one of a number of Premier League teams interested in signing Cresswell, while Ligue 1 side Rennes are also looking to pursue a move.

Palace are in the market for a centre-back, with Chelsea keen on signing Maxence Lacroix this summer, and Standard Sport understands Cresswell would be keen on a return to England.

Palace are under no financial pressure to sell Lacroix, but have identified Cresswell as a target should he leave the club.

Cresswell left Leeds to join Ligue 1 side Toulouse in 2024 in search of regular first-team minutes.

Since his arrival in France, Cresswell has impressed, making 66 appearances in all competitions across the last two seasons.

Cresswell’s form has attracted interest from clubs in England and France, with Palace among those potentially keen to pursue a deal after initially registering their interest in January.

The 23-year-old would be viewed as a direct replacement for Lacroix, who is one of a number of targets being monitored by Chelsea as they look to sign a centre-back this summer.

Standard Sport understands that while the Blues are interested in Lacroix, they have yet to make an official bid for the France international and continue to explore other opportunities.

Como centre-half Jacobo Ramon also features highly on Chelsea’s list of options, with the Italian side coincidentally holding an interest in Trevoh Chalobah.

Chelsea are not actively looking to sell Chalobah, but the England international is said to be keen on a move abroad.