The future of Crystal Palace's French center-back Maxence Lacroix is becoming clear. According to French newspaper L'Équipe, the 26-year-old defender is very close to transferring to Chelsea for around 55 million euros after his duty at the 2026 World Cup. Talks between the two London clubs have gathered pace for Lacroix, who has been linked with Stamford Bridge for months.
Chelsea, under Xabi Alonso, are prioritizing an aerially dominant center-back to strengthen their defense ahead of the new season. The London side, seeking a player to line up alongside Levi Colwill, turned their attention to Lacroix after missing out on Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham. According to the report, Lacroix started in place of the injured William Saliba for France against Norway at the World Cup; after the tournament, he is expected to join Chelsea.
Lacroix has reached the point of leaving Crystal Palace after a successful two-year spell at the club. The French defender, who joined Palace from Wolfsburg for around 18 million euros in the summer of 2024, contributed to the club winning the first major trophy in its history during that time. Palace are said to be in a strong negotiating position for the player, whose contract runs until 2029, which is why the transfer fee is reported to be high.
Lacroix, if completed, will be the second major signing for Chelsea under Xabi Alonso. The London club had previously added Italian right-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta for around £43 million; Chelsea, who competed with Inter Milan for the versatile player, were the side that got the deal done. It is reported that completing Lacroix's transfer could open the door for several departures at Chelsea, with offers to be considered for some defenders, led by Axel Disasi. Lacroix, who stands out with his ball-playing ability, dominance in aerial duels and effectiveness at set pieces, is expected to form a compatible pairing alongside Colwill as a Premier League-proven name.
Source: L'Équipe
Image: Yahoo Sports
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