Chelsea close in on Maxence Lacroix as Crystal Palace defender prepares for medical
Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, with the France international set to undergo a medical before completing his move to Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have agreed a deal worth around £55 million for the 26-year-old, who is expected to sign a long-term contract until 2032.
Lacroix has been one of Chelsea’s leading defensive targets throughout the summer as head coach Xabi Alonso looks to reshape his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
The former Wolfsburg centre-back has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout defenders since joining Crystal Palace in 2024.
He made 55 appearances in all competitions last season and played a pivotal role in one of the most successful campaigns in Palace’s history.
Lacroix helped Oliver Glasner’s side lift the FA Cup before adding the UEFA Conference League and Community Shield, cementing his reputation as one of the division’s most consistent central defenders.
His performances also earned him a place in France’s World Cup squad, where he featured three times during the tournament.
Chelsea believe his pace, physicality and ability to defend aggressively suit Alonso’s preferred style, with the club eager to strengthen a back line that has undergone significant changes this summer.
The arrival of Lacroix is also expected to intensify competition for places in central defence.
Chelsea are open to offers for several defenders before the transfer window closes, with Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile and Trevoh Chalobah among those whose futures remain uncertain.
Crystal Palace have already begun planning for life after Lacroix.
Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima has emerged as the club’s preferred replacement, although Trabzonspor’s Chibuike Nwaiwu is also being monitored should negotiations fail to progress.
Lacroix joined Palace from Wolfsburg for around £15 million two years ago and has almost quadrupled his market value through a series of outstanding displays in south London.
Chelsea view the transfer as a major investment in a defender entering the prime years of his career.
Provided the medical is completed without any issues, an official announcement is expected in the coming days.
Chelsea will hope Lacroix’s arrival provides another important building block as Alonso looks to return the club to regular Premier League title contention after an eventful year of change both on and off the pitch.
