Chelsea have strengthened their defence with the signing of French international Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a transfer worth £52 million
The move sees the 26-year-old centre-back commit his future to the Blues with a contract running until 2032. He becomes Chelsea’s third addition of the current transfer window.
Lacroix arrives after an impressive spell at Crystal Palace, having joined the Premier League club from German side Wolfsburg in 2024 for an initial £15.5 million. He quickly established himself as a key player under Oliver Glasner.
During the 2025/26 campaign, the defender featured in 55 matches across all competitions and played an important role as Palace lifted the UEFA Conference League, the club’s first major European title.
On the international stage, Lacroix has made seven appearances for France and represented Les Bleus at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, playing three matches, including the third-place play-off against England, as France finished fourth.
He links up with fellow summer recruits Morgan Rogers and Marco Palestra as Chelsea continue rebuilding the squad ahead of Xabi Alonso’s first season in charge.
Chelsea reportedly prioritised the signing of Lacroix in a bid to improve their defensive solidity while adding experience, leadership and greater physical presence at the back.
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