Crystal Palace are reportedly close to landing 24-year-old French defender Maxence Lacroix from Bundesliga club VfL Wolfsburg.
Crystal Palace are nearing the conclusion of talks to sign VfL Wolfsburg centre-back Maxence Lacroix, as the South London club brace for the potential departure of Marc Guehi to Newcastle United. Newcastle United have been in persistent negotiations with the Eagles over a move for Guehi, who is eager to make the switch to St. James’ Park this summer.
Newcastle United’s initial offer for Guehi has been rejected. But the Tyneside outfit are continuing their efforts to lower Crystal Palace’s £65 million asking price, having submitted a new bid of £50 million plus bonuses. With just two years remaining on Guehi’s contract, Newcastle United hope to leverage this in their ongoing discussions.
Contingency plans
Aware of the likelihood of losing Guehi, Palace have moved quickly to secure a replacement. According to TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Rudy Galetti, negotiations with Wolfsburg for Lacroix are now in the final stages.
The French defender, who has only one year remaining on his contract with the Bundesliga club, has expressed his desire to take on a new challenge, prompting VfL Wolfsburg to seek a transfer rather than risk losing him for free next summer.
Oliver Glasner’s vote of approval
The 24-year-old has been a standout performer at Wolfsburg, and Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, who previously managed the Frenchman at the Bundesliga club, is keen to reunite with him at Selhurst Park. Glasner’s familiarity with Lacroix’s playing style and strengths makes the defender an ideal candidate to fill the void that could be left by Guehi’s departure.
Securing Lacroix would be a significant move for Crystal Palace as they prepare for the possible exit of one of their key players. The Frenchman’s arrival would not only reinforce Crystal Palace’s defence but also bring in a player with top-level experience in European football.
The club showed much promise last season under Glasner and will hope to build upon that in 2024-25. Losing Guehi after selling Micheal Olise will make their job harder but bringing in suitable replacements like Lacroix still gives them a fighting chance.
