{"id":18735,"date":"2026-07-19T03:38:19","date_gmt":"2026-07-19T03:38:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/playball.com.ng\/?p=18735"},"modified":"2026-07-19T03:38:19","modified_gmt":"2026-07-19T03:38:19","slug":"update-on-chelsea-and-their-pursuit-of-this-crystal-palace-defender","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/playball.com.ng\/?p=18735","title":{"rendered":"Update on Chelsea and their pursuit of this Crystal Palace defender"},"content":{"rendered":"


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In a recent report, The Times provided an update on Chelsea and their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix. It has been stated that the Blues would have to pay \u00a355m to land the French centre-back later this year.<\/p>\n

Lacroix\u2019s Impressive Form In The Premier League<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Lacroix enjoyed a good run of form at the London club after he put in a run of solid displays for them in the Premier League. The 26-year-old found the back of the net three times and picked up three times in 55 appearances for the Eagles last season across all competitions.<\/p>\n

The French sensation is currently among the best centre-backs in the Premier League. Hence, it is no surprise that the Blues are planning to get a deal done for him in this transfer window.<\/p>\n

His current contract at Selhurt Park will run out in the summer of 2029. Hence, Chelsea have got no choice but to meet Crystal Palace\u2019s demands for their prized asset this summer.<\/p>\n

\"Chelsea\"
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA \u2013 JULY 04: Maxence Lacroix #26 of France arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Dan Mullan\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

What Should Chelsea Boss Xabi Alonso Do With Regards To Lacroix?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Lacroix is a tough-tackling defender who can read the danger well to earn possession back for his side on the defensive end of the field. He doesn\u2019t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive and is proficient at playing his way out from the back.<\/p>\n

Standing at 1.90, the French talent can use his powerful frame to win a few 50-50 aerial duels for his team. Lacroix has got some valuable experience in the Premier League and won\u2019t take much time to adjust to life at Chelsea. He has already proven himself in England and would be a good option for the Blues to pursue in this transfer window.<\/p>\n

We can expect him to add more bite and steel to Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso\u2019s defensive department. Lacroix is capable of challenging for a regular starting place at Stamford Bridge next season.<\/p>\n

At 26, the French talent has his best years ahead of him, which makes him a decent option for the Blues to pursue in this transfer period. Thus, Alonso should consider meeting Crystal Palace\u2019s asking price to bring Lacroix to Stamford Bridge this summer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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