Chelsea want to sign at least one new centre-back this summer and have identified Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix as their top target.
The Blues have already been busy in the window. Several players have left, including Marc Cucurella and Tyrique George who joined Real Madrid and Everton, respectively.
Alejandro Garnacho is another who could go with huge uncertainty over which striker, if any of the current crop, will be Xabi Alonso's main forward next season.
In terms of incomings, Marco Palestra is the only one to come through the door so far. The young right-back has joined from Atalanta and looks an exciting prospect.
Alonso needs more established and Premier League proven defenders, though, and that has inspired him to push for Lacroix, but the Blues are struggling to get a deal across the line.
Chelsea and Crystal Palace in disagreement over Maxence Lacroix
Resigned to losing the France international this summer, Palace have opened the door for his sale, but are determined to get the right fee.
And according to Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips, the Eagles' strong stance has caused an impasse in negotiations.
Phillips has reported that Palace are holding out for £60 million for Lacroix with Chelsea only prepared to pay £40 million.
That £20 million gap in valuation has caused talks to stall but a compromise at £50 million is likely to be enough to get the deal across the line.
Why Chelsea need to move quickly
Following an incredibly impressive individual campaign last season, Lacroix saw himself included in Didier Deschamps' final 26-man France squad for the 2026 World Cup.
The 26-year-old is currently with Les Bleus in North America and preparing for a massive quarter final knockout tie against Morocco on Thursday.
Should the two-time World champions go on to lift their third World Cup, Lacroix would've played a huge part and that could see Palace dig their heels in even further.
While the Blues may not want to bend to their rivals' demands, in this case, they may not have a choice. Lacroix's possible World Cup glory would not only see his price rise, but it could also lead to other, better positioned, clubs entering the mix, and that is something Alonso will fear.
During his two years at Selhurst Park, Lacroix, who has three years left on his contract, has been directly involved in eight goals in 98 matches in all competitions.
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