Chelsea in talks for Lacroix, top centre-back target
Chelsea have started talks with Crystal Palace for Maxence Lacroix. Fabrizio Romano confirmed it on Wednesday: "Chelsea have started talks for Crystal Palace centre back Maxence Lacroix. Understand #CFC will sign one or even TWO centre backs this summer based also on outgoings" (2). The Frenchman is keen on the move.
Lacroix played in France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain 0–2 on Tuesday and French media were not kind. Maxifoot wrote he "was too often a step behind" and "far too passive" on Pedro Porro's goal (8).
Kone race heats up as Chelsea enter talks
Chelsea have held initial talks for Roma midfielder Manu Kone (9). Manchester United were considered frontrunners for the Frenchman, but your club are now pushing their own discussions, hoping Roma's interest in Alejandro Garnacho can help (7). Kone is seen as a direct replacement for Andrey Santos, who left for Manchester United (6).
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Alonso clearing out €160m in players
Xabi Alonso is not wasting time. The new manager has sidelined players worth €160 million as he reshapes a bloated 37-man squad (3). Alonso wants more signings, potentially including a goalkeeper. One name in the frame: Porto's Diogo Costa, though the €60m asking price is giving Chelsea pause (11).
Wirtz should pick Chelsea, says Morientes
Former Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes believes Florian Wirtz would be best served reuniting with Xabi Alonso at Chelsea rather than moving to Anfield (1). The two worked together at Bayer Leverkusen.
Chalobah wanted by Palace
Crystal Palace have enquired about Trevoh Chalobah (5). Chelsea value him at £35m and have already rejected two bids from Como. Chalobah is available this summer.
Ugochukwu loaned to Galatasaray
Former Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu is heading to Galatasaray on loan from Burnley, with an option to buy included (4).
Fan reactions
The Enzo Fernández situation is stirring real anger among supporters. Chelsea deleted a social media post showing the Argentine celebrating his World Cup semi-final equaliser against England, after furious fan backlash. Meanwhile, Mike Penders has announced his departure from Strasbourg, and Reece James was set to start for England in their semi-final against Fernández's Argentina. Read more on r/chelseafc
