Chelsea
have held formal talks with Crystal Palace for the 26-year-old French
centre-back, who impressed in Palace's strong campaign and for France at the
recent World Cup.
Negotiations
are advancing on a fee around Palace's £55 million valuation, with personal
terms already agreed in principle and Lacroix eager to join as a starter in
Alonso's high-line system.
Arsenal have shown interest but lag behind, while Palace aim to cash in after a solid season despite Chelsea's lack of European football next term.