Chelsea ready to shell €30 million for French (Franse) World Cup defender

Chelsea are prepared to pay up to €30 million for French defender Maxence Lacroix, with a contract that runs to mid‑2032 at Stamford Bridge. The fee represents a significant outlay for the Blues as they reinforce their back line.

The Blues have reached an agreement with Crystal Palace over Lacroix’s transfer, a deal confirmed by multiple media outlets including Fabrizio Romano and the BBC. Both clubs have settled the administrative terms, leaving only the final formalities.

Lacroix, 26, will sign a long‑term contract at Stamford Bridge, pending a medical examination. Reports indicate the contract extends to the middle of 2032, securing his services for several seasons.

The two London (Londense) clubs have already secured the administrative approval, and the transfer will be completed once the medical clears, described as “waiting for white smoke.”

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Since joining Palace in 2024, Lacroix featured in 55 matches and contributed to the club’s Conference League triumph. He also earned a place in the French World Cup squad, making three appearances at the tournament.

Chelsea value Lacroix for his physical attributes and versatility, noting he can operate in a four‑man defence or a three‑centre‑back system. The French (Franse) centre‑back is seen as a perfect fit for Xabi Alonso’s tactical plans.

Crystal Palace originally paid roughly €15 million for Lacroix in 2024 after his move from VfL Wolfsburg. Chelsea appear set to spend a multiple of that amount to secure the defender for Stamford Bridge.

Lacroix will take the place of Trevor Chalobah in the squad. Chalobah is set to leave Chelsea, with Italian side Como reportedly submitting bids that could reach €30 million. The defender has expressed a strong desire to move to Serie A.