Chelsea Hit Transfer Roadblock in Desperate Push to Bolster Defensive Ranks

Chelsea are in the early phases of a defensive rebuild this summer, with reported interest in Crystal Palace center back Maxence Lacroix said to be intensifying.

Left back Marc Cucurella made a surprising move to Real Madrid earlier this month, while Atalanta right back Marco Palestra, aged just 21, is expected to complete his transfer to Stamford Bridge in the near future.

BBC Sport reports that center back, a position that could see multiple exits, is the next area of focus as incoming manager Xabi Alonso prepares to take the helm. Palace's Lacroix, who would only need to make a brief journey across London, is now regarded as a "key target" in that department.