LONDON – In one of the most high-profile moves of the current Premier League transfer window, Chelsea has finalized the acquisition of French international center back Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, the club confirmed Thursday. The deal is reportedly valued at 52 million British pounds, equivalent to approximately $70 million.
Lacroix, who recently returned to club action after representing France at the World Cup, has signed an eight-year contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032. This transfer marks Chelsea’s third major incoming signing of the window, following the earlier arrivals of attacking player Morgan Rogers and young defender Marco Palestra under new manager Xabi Alonso. According to transfer market reports, Alonso is also continuing to pursue senior targets including forward Danny Welbeck and midfielder Jordan Henderson to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season.
In comments released after the deal was announced, Lacroix expressed his excitement over the move, highlighting alignment with the new manager’s vision for the club. “When I spoke with the manager, I saw that we have the same direction and desire for this club,” he said. “We want to win. When you see the quality of the players here, everything we have around the club, it’s something that we can achieve. The ambition is to lift trophies, and I can’t wait to contribute.”
The 26-year-old defender has rapidly established himself as one of the Premier League’s top center backs during his short tenure at Crystal Palace. During his time at Selhurst Park, he helped the club claim three major honors: the UEFA Conference League, the FA Cup, and the FA Community Shield. Lacroix’s professional career began at French lower-league side Sochaux, before he moved to German Bundesliga club Wolfsburg, and eventually made his switch to Crystal Palace in 2024.