Two of England’s biggest clubs are reportedly going head-to-head for one of the Premier League’s most impressive defenders — and Crystal Palace won’t give him up without a fight.

Chelsea and Liverpool are both tracking Maxence Lacroix, according to TEAMtalk, with Tottenham and Aston Villa also keeping tabs on the French centre-back. Interest doesn’t stop at English borders either — Inter Milan, Napoli, Bayern Munich, and Borussia Dortmund are all circling.

Why Everyone Wants Lacroix

Since arriving from Wolfsburg, Lacroix has been nothing short of exceptional at Selhurst Park. Six goal contributions, 17 clean sheets, and 52 appearances this season tell only part of the story. He’s helped Palace reach a Conference League final and earned himself a spot in Didier Deschamps’ France squad for this summer’s World Cup. At 26, he’s hitting peak form at exactly the right moment.

Palace Digging In — But £50m Could Force Their Hand

Crystal Palace have no desire to sell, and despite his contract running until 2029, they’re ready to offer Lacroix an improved deal to ward off suitors. But top players at their peak rarely stay put forever.

Should Palace eventually be prised open, they want £50 million.

Perfect Fit for Chelsea or Liverpool?

For Chelsea, rebuilding under Xabi Alonso, a commanding 6ft 3in ball-playing defender fits the brief perfectly. For Liverpool, with Virgil van Dijk showing signs of decline, Lacroix represents a ready-made long-term successor.

Either way, this transfer battle is only just heating up.