Chelsea sign Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace

Chelsea have agreed a fee of roughly £52‑60 million to sign French centre‑back Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. The 26‑year‑old completed his medical and is set to sign a long‑term contract running until 2032, bolstering Chelsea’s defence under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Crystal Palace, left with a vacancy, have made Chrislain Matsima their primary target, upping their offer to €25 million after a rejected €20 million bid. The club also lists Nigerian defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, currently at Trabzonspor, as a possible replacement, with the Turkish side demanding €30‑35 million for the player. Discussions with both clubs are ongoing as Palace seeks to fill the gap left by Lacroix.