Xabi Alonso is closing in on his second Chelsea signing after sanctioning a move for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.
Former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Alonso officially takes over at Stamford Bridge next month after his appointment on a four-year deal.
Alonso, one of the best players of his generation and a highly-rated coach, agreed a deal with Chelsea after the sacking of Liam Rosenior.
While the Spanish football legend is still waiting to officially take charge of Chelsea, he has been busy helping the Blues work on their summer recruitment.
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Alonso is believed to have played an integral role in Chelsea’s first summer signing, a £51m deal for Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra.
Inter Milan were leading the race to sign the 21-year-old Italy international but Chelsea hijacked the deal and Alonso helped convince Palestra to move to west London.
Alonso, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, has also sanctioned Chelsea’s move for Palace star Lacroix.
Chelsea are keen to bring some proven Premier League players to Stamford Bridge following a desperately disappointing season and Lacroix fits the bill.
The France international has made 70 Premier League appearances over the past two seasons, helping Crystal Palace win the FA Cup and Conference League.
Romano says Chelsea have opened talks with Palace over a deal for the 26-year-old, who has indicated he is ‘keen’ to join the Premier League giants.
Personal terms are not expected to be an issue as Lacroix is hoping to move to Stamford Bridge, but Chelsea would still need to agree a deal with London rivals Palace.
It was reported by French outlet RMC Sport earlier this month that Crystal Palace would want at least £35m to sell Lacroix and are under no pressure to offload him.
But Chelsea are confident of securing his signature given his desire to join the club and be part of Alonso’s project.
Alonso’s priority is bolstering his defensive options as Marc Cucurella has joined Real Madrid and both Malo Gusto and Trevoh Chalobah have been linked with summer exits.
Gusto is believed to be of interest to new Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca, who left Chelsea in January, while former Blues midfielder Cesc Fabregas – now in charge of Como – wants to sign Chalobah.
After strengthening in defence, Alonso could seek a couple of midfield and attacker signings, with Chelsea one of a number of teams interested in England’s Morgan Rogers.
Alonso takes over a Chelsea side that finished just 10th in the Premier League last season, far closer to the relegation zone in terms of points than champions Arsenal.
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