Chelsea have completed the signing of France international Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a deal worth £52 million, strengthening their defence ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
The 26-year-old centre-back has signed a long-term contract until 2032, bringing an end to his two-year spell at Crystal Palace, where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout defenders.
Chelsea confirmed the move on Thursday after reaching an agreement with Palace, with Lacroix becoming one of the club’s major acquisitions during the summer transfer window.
Speaking after completing the transfer, Lacroix expressed his excitement about joining the West London club.
“Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in the world. It has a great history and huge ambitions. I want to help the team win trophies and achieve great things.”
The French defender arrives with significant experience, having made 55 appearances for Crystal Palace last season, contributing three goals and three assists as the Eagles lifted the UEFA Conference League title. He also featured for France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Les Bleus finished fourth.
Lacroix began his professional career at Sochaux before joining German side VfL Wolfsburg in 2020. He moved to Crystal Palace in 2024 and went on to make 98 appearances for the South London club across all competitions before securing his move to Stamford Bridge.
His arrival continues Chelsea’s extensive squad rebuild under head coach Xabi Alonso, who has prioritised strengthening the club’s defensive options with players possessing top-level experience.
The transfer also increases Chelsea’s spending during the current transfer window as the club prepares for the new Premier League campaign with ambitions of returning to domestic and European title contention.
(The Sun)