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Chelsea are close to finalizing a $69 million deal for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. The 26-year-old France international is expected to undergo a medical before signing a six-year deal at Stamford Bridge, with Palace actively searching for a replacement ahead of the new campaign.
The Blues are getting closer to Lacroix
According to The Athletic, Chelsea are finalizing the transfer of Palace central defender Lacroix in a deal worth around $69 million. The French defender is due to undergo a medical on Friday before committing to a contract until 2032. Meanwhile, the Eagles have started 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, alongside several other options including Como defender Jacobo Ramon. The Blues have chosen to focus their efforts on the imposing centre-back following his rapid progression over two seasons in the Premier League. Its strong evolution is clearly reflected in its market valuation, which went from an initial amount of 18 million euros to a high price.
The French defender shines brightly
Standing at 190cm tall, the defender established himself as Palace’s cornerstone last season, racking up 55 appearances in all competitions while lifting the Community Shield and winning the Conference League trophy. His consistent performances since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2024 have earned him a place in the France squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Lacroix’s arrival at Stamford Bridge could trigger a reshuffle in the defensive hierarchy, directly impacting the futures of Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah and Mamadou Sarr.
Alonso reshuffles defensive options
Once the transfer is officially complete, new manager Xabi Alonso must quickly integrate Lacroix into his defensive setup for the remainder of the pre-season. The Chelsea hierarchy will also need to resolve the futures of several fringe centre-backs in order to maintain the team’s balance ahead of the new campaign. Meanwhile, Palace face pressure to find a replacement before the transfer window closes to preserve their defensive stability.
