Chelsea transfer news today: Blues ‘in talks’ with Crystal Palace over centre back switch

Chelsea and Crystal Palace are reportedly locked in talks over the transfers of Axel Disasi and Maxence Lacroix, with both defenders in line for moves across London this summer.

Chelsea have been linked with a move for Lacroix all summer, and The Standard are now reporting that the Eagles are looking at Disasi as his replacement should he depart Selhurst Park.

Officially, the two deals are being worked on separately, with both clubs preferring permanent sales to loan transfers.

Crystal Palace are in the stronger negotiating position

Out of the two clubs, it is Crystal Palace who possess the stronger hand. The player they want to sign, Disasi, is surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge, as evidenced by the fact that he has yet to return to training.

Meanwhile, the player Chelsea are trying to sign, Lacroix, is regarded as a key Crystal Palace player and is very much part of their plans for the new season. The Frenchman is also enjoying a post-World Cup break, which could complicate the deal, at least in the immediate future.

Additionally, Lacroix has three years left on his current deal with Crystal Palace, meaning the Eagles will be able to command a large fee to part ways with him.

In terms of Disasi, the Standard are reporting that Chelsea have placed a price tag of £25m on his head, which could deter the Eagles.

Disasi spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham, but he could not save them from relegation to the Championship. The Hammers are also said to be interested in signing the 28-year-old on a permanent deal, but he isn't thought to be keen on playing in the second tier of English football.

FW verdict: Two deals married together

While the official line from both clubs is that these are two separate deals, the reality is that one will not happen without the other.

Crystal Palace are not going to spend £25m on a defender if they can convince Lacroix to stay put for another season, while Chelsea will look to sell Disasi elsewhere if Palace play hardball over Lacroix.

This is a deal that should pick up pace once Lacroix is back in London.