Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix is on the verge of joining Chelsea after both clubs reached an agreement for the player. The deal, which is expected to see Lacroix sign a long-term contract, follows positive discussions between the two London clubs, with Crystal Palace reportedly seeking around £60 million for the centre-back.

Medical and Contract Details

Lacroix is anticipated to undergo a medical examination within the next 24 hours, with personal terms not expected to pose any issues. The contract is understood to run until 2032, marking a significant step in Lacroix's career as he transitions to Chelsea.

Performance and Background

The 26-year-old defender has been a key player for Crystal Palace, making 55 appearances across all competitions last season. His contributions helped the club secure the UEFA Conference League, marking their first major European trophy. Lacroix also played a role in Palace's Community Shield victory over Liverpool and was instrumental in their strong Premier League performance.

His impressive form earned him a spot in the France squad for the 2026 World Cup, where he made three appearances, including two starts in crucial matches. Lacroix joined Crystal Palace from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg in August 2024 for an initial fee of £15.5 million, plus potential add-ons.

Reasons Behind Chelsea's Interest

Chelsea's interest in Lacroix stems from his standout performances in the Premier League over the past two seasons. He was the only player in the 2025-26 season to achieve at least 50 tackles, 200 duels won, and 250 clearances. Standing at 6ft 4in, Lacroix combines aerial prowess with remarkable recovery speed, ranking among the fastest centre-backs in the league.

His defensive capabilities are further highlighted by his success rate in one-on-one situations, where he won possession 50.5% of the time. Additionally, Lacroix's tactical versatility allows him to thrive in both a back four and a back three, providing Chelsea with valuable options as head coach Xabi Alonso has utilized both formations in his managerial career.

As Lacroix prepares for this new chapter with Chelsea, his established reputation as a consistent defender in the Premier League positions him as a significant asset for the club moving forward.