Chelsea have completed the signing of France international defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a deal worth £52 million, with the 26-year-old centre-back signing a long-term contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032. The Premier League club confirmed the transfer on Thursday, making Lacroix one of their marquee additions ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Lacroix expressed his excitement after completing the move, describing Chelsea as a club with a rich history and a winning tradition. He also revealed that conversations with new manager Xabi Alonso convinced him that they share the same ambition of competing for major trophies and building a successful team capable of challenging on all fronts.
The French defender arrives after two impressive seasons at Crystal Palace, where he made 98 appearances and played a key role in the club’s most successful period. During his time at Selhurst Park, Palace won the FA Cup, Community Shield and UEFA Conference League, with Lacroix establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most dominant defenders through his pace, aerial ability and consistency.
Before joining Palace in 2024, Lacroix spent four years with VfL Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga after beginning his professional career at Sochaux in France. His performances at club level also earned him a senior international call-up, and he represented France at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making three appearances as Les Bleus finished fourth.
Chelsea believe Lacroix’s arrival will strengthen their defensive options as Alonso reshapes the squad for the new campaign. The signing continues an active summer transfer window for the Blues, who are investing heavily as they aim to return to competing consistently for domestic and European honours.
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