Chelsea nearing £52m transfer for Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace

Chelsea is finalizing a £52 million transfer for defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, with a medical scheduled today. The 26-year-old center back had been in discussions for about a month, as Chelsea looked to strengthen their defense. Lacroix, who recently played in the FIFA World Cup Bronze Final against England, is expected to sign a six-year contract with Chelsea upon successful completion of his medical. There are reports that Crystal Palace may be considering options for Lacroix's replacement.

• 8:28 AMYahoo Sports — Chelsea, Crystal Palace ‘finalising’ £52m Maxence Lacroix transfer — report