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Chelsea are on the verge of completing a $69 million deal for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. The 26-year-old France international will undergo a medical before signing a six-year deal at Stamford Bridge, while Palace are actively seeking a replacement ahead of the new campaign.
Blues close to Lacroix
According to The Athletic, Chelsea are closing in on the transfer of Palace centre-back Lacroix in a deal worth around $69 million. The France defender is scheduled to undergo a medical on Friday before committing to a contract that runs until 2032. Meanwhile, the Eagles have begun searching for his replacement, targeting Augsburg’s Chrislain Matsima along with Trabzonspor’s Chibuike Nwaiwu as an alternative option.
Lacroix has emerged as one of Chelsea’s primary transfer targets since June, along with several other options, including Como defender Jacobo Ramon. The Blues chose to focus their pursuit of the impressive central defender following his rapid rise through two seasons in the Premier League. His sharp development is clearly reflected in his market valuation, which has risen from an initial fee of 18 million. EUR at a premium price.
French defender shines brightly
At 190cm tall, the defender established himself as a cornerstone for Palace last season, making 55 appearances across all competitions as they lifted the Community Shield and secured the Conference League trophy. His consistent displays since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2024 earned him a place in France’s 2026 World Cup squad.
Lacroix’s arrival at Stamford Bridge could spark a reshuffle in the defensive hierarchy, directly affecting the futures of Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah and Mamadou Sarr.
Alonso mixes defensive options
With the transfer formally completed, new manager Xabi Alonso must quickly integrate Lacroix into his defensive setup throughout the remainder of pre-season. The Chelsea hierarchy will also need to resolve the futures of several centre-backs on the fringes to maintain squad balance ahead of the new campaign. Meanwhile, Palace are under pressure to secure a replacement before the transfer window closes in order to maintain their defensive stability.
