Chelsea have got their transfer window up and running with the signing of Marco Palestra, and now look set to add another defender to their squad after the World Cup.
Xabi Alonso personally requested for Chelsea to bring in Palestra, and the player himself has confirmed he is headed to Stamford Bridge despite looking close to a move to Inter Milan.
This has to just be the start for the new manager though. The Spaniard has already made it clear that he wants new centre-backs at the club this summer.
What target are you setting Xabi Alonso in his first season as Chelsea manager?👀
Chelsea set to agree Maxence Lacroix signing
This would suggest he is willing to operate in the back three system and will be looking for players who have experience featuring in that formation.
Maxence Lacroix certainly fits that bill, winning silverware at Crystal Palace in a back three designed by former manager Oliver Glasner.
Chelsea have been strongly linked with the Frenchman, and it seems their interest is set to quickly accelerate towards being a done deal.
According to L’Equipe, Chelsea are expected to complete the signing of Lacroix after the World Cup, where he is currently representing his national team.
The centre-back is expected to start for his country against Norway, where he will face the immense task of keeping Erling Haaland quiet.
The report goes on to say that a deal is expected to cost around £55m, which can be seen as a savvy investment in today’s market.
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