Crystal Palace have reportedly stepped up plans to strengthen their defence by identifying Bundesliga centre-back Chrislain Matsima as a potential replacement should Maxence Lacroix leave the club during the current transfer window.
According to reports, Palace are preparing for the possibility of losing Lacroix following his impressive performances for France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which have reportedly attracted interest from Chelsea.
With uncertainty surrounding the future of one of their key defenders, the Premier League side are said to have turned their attention to Matsima, the Congolese-born defender currently playing for German club Augsburg.
The reported interest represents another example of how African-linked footballers continue to attract attention in Europe’s biggest leagues, with Matsima now emerging as one of the latest defenders being linked with a move to England.
The 24-year-old came through the youth system at AS Monaco before continuing his development in Germany with Augsburg, where he has established himself despite facing injury setbacks during the previous campaign.
Although his season was disrupted by a tendon injury, Matsima still featured in around 20 Bundesliga matches, underlining his importance to Augsburg whenever he was available for selection.
His performances have earned him growing recognition in Germany, and Crystal Palace reportedly believe he possesses the qualities needed to strengthen their back line if Lacroix completes a move elsewhere.
The Eagles, now under the management of Pierre Sage, are understood to be assessing several defensive options as they prepare for every possible outcome before the transfer window closes.
For Palace, planning ahead could prove essential if interest in Lacroix develops into a formal transfer bid. Rather than waiting until a departure becomes official, the club appears determined to identify suitable replacements early.
Matsima fits the profile of a defender with experience at a high level while still having room for further development.
However, completing any potential deal may not be straightforward.
The defender remains under contract with Augsburg until 30 June 2030, placing the Bundesliga club in a strong negotiating position should any official offer arrive.
That long-term agreement means Augsburg are under no immediate pressure to sell and could command a substantial transfer fee if Palace decide to pursue the player seriously.
According to the information available, Matsima currently has an estimated market value of €22 million, highlighting the scale of any possible investment required.
A transfer would also attract interest from another club with a financial stake in the player’s future.
AS Monaco, where Matsima began his professional journey, reportedly retained a 15% sell-on clause when he left for Augsburg. Any future transfer fee would therefore also benefit the French club.
While Crystal Palace’s reported interest remains at an exploratory stage, the situation illustrates how quickly transfer plans can evolve during the summer market.
