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Chelsea are close to completing a $69 million bid for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. The 26-year-old France international will undergo a medical before signing a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, while Palace are actively searching for a replacement ahead of the new campaign.
The blues approaches Lacroix
According to The Athletic, Chelsea are finalizing the transfer of Palace centre-back Lacroix in a deal worth around $69 million. The French defender is due to undergo a medical on Friday before committing to a contract that runs until 2032. Meanwhile, the Eagles have begun searching for his replacement, targeting Augsburg’s Chrislain Matsima alongside Trabzonspor’s Chibuike Nwaiwu as an alternative option.
Lacroix has become one of Chelsea’s top transfer targets since June, along with several other options, including Como defender Jacobo Ramon. The Blues chose to focus their activities on the imposing central defender after his rapid progression over two seasons in the Premier League. Its strong development is clearly reflected in its market valuation, which has gone from an initial fee of €18 million to a higher price.
The French defender shines
Standing at 190cm, the defender established himself as Palace’s cornerstone last season, racking up 55 appearances in all competitions as they lifted the Community Shield and secured the Conference League trophy. His consistent performances since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2024 earned him a place in France’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Lacroix’s arrival at Stamford Bridge could trigger a shake-up in the defensive hierarchy, directly impacting the futures of Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah and Mamadou Sarr.
Alonso reorganizes defensive options
Once the transfer is formally completed, new coach Xabi Alonso must quickly integrate Lacroix into his defensive setup for the remainder of the preseason. Chelsea’s hierarchy will also need to resolve the future of several fringe central defenders to maintain the team’s balance heading into the new campaign. Palace, meanwhile, face pressure to secure a replacement before the transfer window closes to preserve their defensive stability.
