Crystal Palace have inquired about Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah during negotiations over Maxence Lacroix’s potential move to Stamford Bridge.
While direct player exchanges were off the table, Palace took the opportunity during transfer talks to gauge Chalobah’s availability. The Eagles are actively searching for a replacement for Lacroix, who is on the verge of completing a £55 million move to Chelsea.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Palace have drawn up a list of prospective targets, with the 27-year-old Chalobah featuring prominently among them.
The English centre-back previously enjoyed a strong loan stint at Selhurst Park during the first half of the 2024/25 campaign before being recalled to Stamford Bridge by Enzo Maresca.
However, Italian side Como currently lead the race for Chalobah’s signature. The Serie A outfit are reportedly nearing a £30 million agreement after seeing their initial two bids turned down.
Could Palace Hijack Como’s Move for Chalobah?
Brown noted that several Premier League clubs remain attentive to Chalobah’s situation and could attempt a late move to derail his prospective transfer to Italy.
Palace retain a strong interest in the defender following his successful spell in South London, where key figures at the club were impressed by his contributions. During discussions with Chelsea, the Eagles also inquired about Axel Disasi, though a deal for Chalobah currently appears unlikely.
”Crystal Palace will certainly need a replacement for Lacroix,” Brown explained to Football Insider. “Losing him to Chelsea is a huge blow given his key role in their recent successes.”
”It makes sense that they brought up Chalobah while speaking with Chelsea. Even though a move to Italy seems most probable right now, Palace know his qualities firsthand. Everyone at the club was disappointed when his loan ended early, so exploring a return is a logical step as they seek cover at the back.”
Alternative Defensive Targets for the Eagles
Palace are intensifying their recruitment drive to ensure their defensive line remains well-stocked ahead of Lacroix’s departure.
Alongside Chelsea duo Chalobah and Disasi, the South London club are evaluating options across Europe, including Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima.
Palace are also closely monitoring Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell. Scouts have regularly tracked the England Under-21 international in France, and reports suggest the former Leeds United defender is open to a return to English football. Palace manager Pierre Sage is also understood to be a keen admirer of the young defender’s abilities.