On Thursday, Chelsea completed the transfer of French defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace for a fee believed to be £52 million, or $69 million. The 26-year-old, who has represented France seven times including an appearance at the World Cup, has committed to a six-year deal and will immediately join the squad for pre-season training.
Lacroix expressed his pride in joining a club with such a storied history and winning culture. He noted that his conversations with manager Xabi Alonso revealed a shared vision and an intense desire to secure trophies. During his stint at Selhurst Park, the defender logged 98 appearances and helped the club capture the FA Cup, the UEFA Conference League, and the Community Shield after his 2024 arrival from Wolfsburg.
This signing continues a busy transfer window for Xabi Alonso, who recently oversaw the club-record £117 million acquisition of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa and the £47 million purchase of Marco Palestra from Atalanta. Additionally, Geovany Quenda and Emmanuel Emegha have joined the ranks following agreements made in 2025. With rumors circulating about potential moves for Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson, Alonso is actively reshaping a team that finished in a lackluster 10th place last season, missing out on European competition.
