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Chelsea complete £52m signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace

Chelsea have strengthened their defence with the signing of French international Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a deal worth £52 million.

July 31, 2026 1 min read 65 views
Chelsea complete £52m signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace

The 26-year-old centre-back has signed a long-term contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032, becoming Chelsea's third signing of the summer transfer window.

Lacroix arrives after an outstanding season with Crystal Palace, where he made 55 appearances across all competitions and played a key role in the club's UEFA Conference League triumph—their first major European title.

Chelsea complete £52m signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace

The defender, who has seven senior caps for France, also represented his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, featuring in three matches as Les Bleus finished fourth.

Chelsea identified Lacroix as a priority target as they looked to strengthen their backline with an experienced and commanding defender. Although several other centre-backs were considered, the Frenchman emerged as the club's preferred choice.

Talks between Chelsea and Crystal Palace progressed after the World Cup, with Lacroix eventually giving the green light to the move.

His arrival reflects Chelsea's shift towards adding more experienced players to complement a young squad that includes Cole Palmer, Moisés Caicedo and Levi Colwill.

Lacroix joins Morgan Rogers and Marco Palestra among Chelsea's new arrivals as the Blues prepare for the upcoming season under new head coach Xabi Alonso, aiming to bounce back after a disappointing campaign.

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