Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix as an alternative to Marc Guehi, following the club’s failure to secure a deal for the England international on deadline day.

According to Football Insider, Lacroix has emerged as a “hot topic” among Liverpool’s recruitment department in recent weeks, with scouts providing glowing reports on his performances.

Described internally as a “Rolls-Royce” of a defender — a label long associated with Virgil van Dijk — the French centre-back has impressed with his composure, athleticism, and ability to read the game.

Maxence Lacroix rise at Crystal Palace

The 25-year-old joined Crystal Palace from Wolfsburg in August 2024 for £18 million and has quickly become a mainstay in Oliver Glasner’s setup.

Forming a solid partnership with Guehi, Lacroix has been central to Palace’s remarkable 19-game unbeaten run, which has made the Eagles one of the Premier League’s surprise packages this season.

Still under contract until 2028, Lacroix is unlikely to be an easy signing, but Liverpool’s growing admiration suggests they see him as an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s evolving defensive line.

Liverpool’s defensive plans

Liverpool remain in the market for a new centre-back after missing out on Guehi in the final hours of the summer transfer window. With Tottenham Hotspur now leading the race to sign Guehi as a potential free agent next summer, the Reds have begun exploring other options.

Lacroix, who combines physical strength with intelligent positioning and ball-playing ability, appears to tick every box for Slot. His statistical output this season has been outstanding — outperforming Van Dijk in both tackles (9 to 2) and interceptions (9 to 7), according to GIVEMESPORT.

Uncertainty over Konate’s future

Adding urgency to Liverpool’s pursuit is the uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konate’s future. The French defender’s contract expires next summer, and ongoing links with Real Madrid have only added to the speculation.

Konate’s inconsistent start to the season has further convinced the club that reinforcements are needed in defence.

With Van Dijk recently signing a new two-year deal, Liverpool are already looking ahead to the next generation of their defensive partnership — and Lacroix’s profile fits the bill perfectly.

Palace’s growing reputation

Crystal Palace’s recent form under Glasner has attracted widespread attention from Europe’s elite clubs. Alongside Lacroix, Liverpool are also monitoring Adam Wharton, who is said to favour a move to Anfield over Manchester United if a transfer materialises.

While prising Lacroix away from Selhurst Park will be difficult, his emergence as one of the Premier League’s top defenders makes him a compelling option as Liverpool continue to reshape their backline for the future.