Chelsea agree deal to sign Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix

Chelsea agree deal to sign Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix

Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix is set to complete a €55 million move to Chelsea after the FIFA World Cup.

The 26-year-old France international is expected to start against Norway in France's final group-stage match, replacing Arsenal centre-back William Saliba.

Once the tournament concludes, Lacroix is expected to remain in London but switch clubs by joining Xabi Alonso's Chelsea, according to L'Equipe.

.The Blues have identified the former Wolfsburg defender as their top centre-back target, with the total package potentially reaching €55 million.

Lacroix joined Crystal Palace from Wolfsburg in 2024 for around €18 million and quickly established himself as a key player.

During his time at Selhurst Park, he helped the Eagles win the 2024-25 FA Cup and the 2025-26 UEFA Conference League. He remains under contract with Palace until the summer of 2029.