Chelsea agree deal with Crystal Palace for Lacroix transfer

Chelsea has reached an agreement with Crystal Palace to sign defender Maxence Lacroix for around £51 million. The 26-year-old joined Palace from Wolfsburg in 2024, where he helped the club secure both the FA Cup and UEFA Conference League titles. Lacroix is known for his impressive defensive skills, which include ranking among the fastest centre-backs and excelling in one-on-one situations. Following the confirmed deal, Crystal Palace is expected to explore options for a new centre-back due to their ongoing interest in players such as Chrislain Matsima and others. The transfer is set to finalize pending Lacroix's formal agreement.