Chelsea have completed the signing of France international defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a deal worth £52 million.
The 26-year-old centre-back has signed a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge that will keep him at the club until 2032, as new boss Xabi Alonso continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new season.
Lacroix, who has earned seven caps for France, joined Crystal Palace from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg in 2024 for an initial £15.5 million.
The defender quickly established himself as an important part of Oliver Glasner’s side, making 55 appearances across all competitions last season as Palace enjoyed a historic campaign.
Lacroix played a key role as Crystal Palace lifted the UEFA Conference League, securing the first major European trophy in the club’s history.His impressive performances also helped earn him a place in France’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Lacroix featured three times during the tournament, including France’s third-place play-off against England, as Les Bleus eventually finished fourth.
Now, however, the defender has decided to take on a new challenge in west London.
Speaking after completing his Chelsea move, Lacroix revealed his excitement at joining the club and working alongside some of the Premier League’s biggest names.
“I’m really proud, really happy, to be part of this beautiful project and I just want to start playing.”
The Frenchman also spoke about his desire to help create the next chapter of Chelsea’s history.
“I feel like we have a story to write here, and I can be part of it, so it’s beautiful.”
Lacroix becomes Chelsea’s third signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrival of Morgan Rogers and Marco Palestra.
The Blues are preparing for their first season under new head coach Xabi Alonso, with the club continuing to invest heavily in strengthening the squad.
Chelsea had already agreed deals for winger Geovany Quenda and striker Emmanuel Emegha in 2025, with both players officially completing their moves this month.
Lacroix’s arrival adds further competition and experience to Chelsea’s defence as Alonso prepares for his first campaign in charge.
Chelsea’s transfer business could be far from finished.
The Blues are currently in talks over a potential deal for Brighton striker Danny Welbeck, while negotiations are also ongoing for Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson.
With Lacroix now through the door, Chelsea fans could be in for another busy few weeks before the summer transfer window closes.Another signing completed.
More targets in the pipeline. The Xabi Alonso era at Chelsea is certainly getting interesting.