Chelsea have reached an agreement with Crystal Palace to sign defender Maxence Lacroix, with the French international now set to complete a long-term move to Stamford Bridge.
The two Premier League clubs have finalised a deal after productive negotiations, with Palace understood to have valued the centre-back at around £60 million. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue.
Lacroix is scheduled to undergo a medical within the next 24 hours before signing a contract that is expected to keep him at Chelsea until 2032.
The transfer has been negotiated at ownership level between the two London clubs.
The 26-year-old enjoyed an outstanding campaign under Oliver Glasner last season, making 55 appearances in all competitions as Crystal Palace lifted the UEFA Conference League — the club's first major European trophy. He also helped the Eagles win the Community Shield against Liverpool and played a key role in another impressive Premier League season.
His consistent performances earned him a place in France's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he made three appearances, including starts against Norway and England in the third-place play-off, as Les Bleus finished fourth.
Lacroix joined Crystal Palace from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg in August 2024 for an initial £15.5 million, with a further £2.6 million in performance-related add-ons. Since arriving in England, he has established himself as one of the Premier League's standout central defenders.
Why Chelsea Wanted Lacroix
Chelsea's pursuit of Lacroix comes after two exceptional seasons in English football that showcased both his defensive quality and athleticism.
During the 2025–26 Premier League season, he was the only player to register at least 50 tackles (60), 200 duels won (204), and 250 clearances (252), highlighting his consistency at the heart of Palace's defence.
Standing at 6ft 4in, Lacroix combines aerial dominance with remarkable pace. Since arriving from Wolfsburg, he has ranked among the Premier League's five fastest centre-backs, recording a top speed of 35.81km/h (22.3mph).
His athleticism is matched by his defensive efficiency. Across the past two Premier League seasons, Lacroix posted the league's best success rate in one-on-one defensive situations among players involved in at least 50 such duels, winning possession 50.5% of the time.
Equally important is his tactical versatility. Comfortable operating in either a back four or a back three, Lacroix excelled in Oliver Glasner's three-man defensive system at Palace while also proving capable in a traditional four-man backline.
His adaptability provides Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso with valuable tactical flexibility as the Blues continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
