Chelsea’s summer rebuild has taken another significant step after new signing Maxence Lacroix was officially handed the club’s No. 23 shirt, a move that strongly suggests academy graduate Trevoh Chalobah is on the verge of leaving Stamford Bridge for Italian side Como.
The shirt assignment is the clearest indication yet that Chelsea are preparing for life without Chalobah, who has been in advanced transfer talks with the ambitious Serie A outfit. Reports indicate negotiations between the two clubs have progressed well, with a deal now appearing increasingly likely.
Lacroix, who recently completed his move from Crystal Palace, arrives with a growing reputation as one of the Premier League’s most dependable central defenders. The Frenchman impressed during his spell at Selhurst Park with his pace, strength, aerial ability, and composure in possession. Chelsea believe those qualities make him an ideal fit for manager Xabi Alonso’s tactical approach as the Blues continue reshaping their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Receiving the No. 23 jersey carries symbolic importance because it had belonged to Chalobah since his breakthrough into Chelsea’s first team. A product of the club’s renowned Cobham Academy, Chalobah established himself as a reliable defender capable of playing both centrally and in a back three. However, increased competition for places has made regular first team football more difficult, opening the door for a transfer.
Como have emerged as the strongest contenders for his signature. The Italian club, managed by former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas, are eager to strengthen their defence as they prepare for another demanding Serie A campaign and European football. Chelsea are reportedly satisfied that the transfer discussions are moving in the right direction, although the final paperwork is yet to be completed.
For Lacroix, the move represents another major milestone in his career. After establishing himself in the Bundesliga before excelling with Crystal Palace, the defender now joins one of England’s biggest clubs with the expectation of becoming a key figure in Chelsea’s back line.
Chelsea’s defensive reshuffle has been one of the club’s major priorities during the transfer window. The arrival of Lacroix strengthens competition at centre back while allowing the club to balance its squad through Chalobah’s expected departure. Club officials believe the changes will provide Alonso with greater tactical flexibility throughout the season.
Supporters will now be watching closely for an official announcement regarding Chalobah’s move to Como. Once confirmed, the transfer will mark the end of a long association between the England international and the club he joined as a child.
With Lacroix already taking over the No. 23 shirt, Chelsea have effectively signalled the beginning of a new chapter in their defensive setup as preparations continue for the upcoming Premier League season.
