Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, with the France defender set to undergo a medical before completing the move

Chelsea have agreed a deal with Crystal Palace to sign France international defender Maxence Lacroix, with the 26-year-old expected to undergo a medical before completing a long-term move to Stamford Bridge.

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The agreement between the two Premier League clubs follows successful negotiations, while personal terms are not expected to present any obstacles. According to BBC Sport, Lacroix is set to sign a contract that will keep him at Chelsea until 2032.

The move represents another significant step in Chelsea’s summer rebuilding project under head coach Xabi Alonso, who is seeking to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Lacroix arrives after two impressive seasons at Crystal Palace, where he established himself as one of the division’s most consistent central defenders.

Under manager Oliver Glasner, he played a pivotal role as Palace won the UEFA Conference League and maintained competitive domestic form.

The defender joined Palace from German side Wolfsburg in August 2024 and quickly became a key figure at Selhurst Park. His performances also earned him a place in France’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, further enhancing his reputation as one of Europe’s emerging defensive talents.

Chelsea’s interest in Lacroix has been driven by his commanding physical presence and tactical versatility. Standing 6ft 4in tall, the centre-back is recognised for his aerial dominance, strength in one-on-one duels and recovery pace, qualities that fit Alonso’s preferred defensive approach.

Statistics from the 2025-26 Premier League season underline his influence. Lacroix was the only player in the competition to record at least 50 tackles, 200 duels won and 250 clearances, highlighting both his consistency and durability across the campaign.

His ability to operate comfortably in either a back four or a back three is also expected to give Alonso greater tactical flexibility as Chelsea continue to reshape their squad.

The deal was negotiated at ownership level between the two London clubs and now awaits the completion of Lacroix’s medical examinations before the transfer is formally announced.

Chelsea have made reinforcing the spine of the squad a priority during the current transfer window as the club looks to build on last season’s progress and challenge more consistently for domestic and European honours.

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The addition of Lacroix is expected to provide greater competition in central defence and add valuable Premier League experience to the squad.