Chelsea are finalising a deal worth around £52million to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. The France international is scheduled to undergo his medical on Friday before signing a six-year contract until 2032.
The Athletic reports that negotiations have reached the closing stages after Chelsea made Lacroix their priority defensive target. Palace are already assessing replacements, with Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima and Trabzonspor’s Chibuike Nwaiwu among their options.
Sky Sports previously reported that Palace wanted more than the £55million Tottenham paid for Jan Paul van Hecke. Chelsea have now moved close enough to complete the agreement for slightly less than that figure.
Maxence Lacroix gives Chelsea proven defensive quality
Lacroix became a central figure at Palace after joining from Wolfsburg in 2024. He has made 98 appearances across two seasons and played 55 times in all competitions last term.
The 26-year-old helped Palace win the Community Shield and Europa Conference League. His performances also earned him a place in France’s World Cup squad, where he made three appearances.
ReadChelsea reported that Chelsea had accelerated talks for Lacroix after a fresh round of discussions between the clubs. His speed, strength and experience defending large spaces make him a strong fit for Xabi Alonso’s system.
His arrival could lead to further movement within Chelsea’s defence. Benoît Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah and Mamadou Sarr may all need clarity over their positions in the squad.
Chelsea still admire Como defender Jacobo Ramón, but Lacroix is now close to becoming Alonso’s latest signing. Provided the medical proceeds without an issue, the Blues should soon complete one of their main summer priorities..
