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Chelsea have reached an agreement with Crystal Palace to sign French defender Maxence Lacroix in a deal worth £52 million, as new manager Xabi Alonso continues to reshape his squad ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
According to transfer expert David Ornstein, the deal has been agreed between both clubs, with the final paperwork now being completed. Lacroix is expected to undergo a medical on Friday before signing a long-term contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032.
The 26-year-old centre-back emerged as one of Chelsea’s priority defensive targets after impressing for Crystal Palace during the 2025/26 campaign. He featured in 55 matches across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in Palace’s historic season, which saw the club win the FA Cup, Community Shield and UEFA Europa Conference League.
Lacroix’s performances also earned him a place in France’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he made three appearances, including two starts, further strengthening his reputation as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders.
Chelsea’s pursuit of the defender forms part of an ambitious summer rebuild under Alonso. The Blues have already completed the signings of Marco Palestra for more than £50 million and Morgan Rogers in a club-record £117 million transfer from Aston Villa as they seek to return to domestic title contention after missing out on European football this season.
Crystal Palace are also set to make a significant profit on the defender, having signed him from Bundesliga side Augsburg for around £17.9 million two years ago. Negotiations were reportedly led at ownership level, with Palace chairman Steve Parish insisting on securing maximum value before agreeing to the transfer.
Lacroix’s arrival is expected to strengthen Chelsea’s central defence alongside Levi Colwill, while increasing competition for places with Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Benoît Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo and Mamadou Sarr. His ability to operate comfortably in both a back four and a three-man defence is also expected to complement Alonso’s tactical flexibility.
Chelsea are expected to confirm the transfer once the player successfully completes his medical examinations and signs the necessary contractual documents.
(The Sun)