Chelsea Sign France Defender Maxence Lacroix on Six-Year Deal

Overview

• Chelsea announced Thursday that 26-year-old centre-back Maxence Lacroix has signed a six-season contract with the club, running to 2032.
• The club confirmed the transfer but did not disclose financial terms; British reports put the fee at about €60 million while Brazilian outlets reported £52 million.
• Lacroix joins from Crystal Palace after two seasons and 98 appearances, a spell that included winning the UEFA Conference League, the FA Cup and the Community Shield.
• He brings recent international experience after playing three matches for France at the 2026 World Cup, including appearances in the semi-final and third-place match.
• The move is an early piece of Xabi Alonso's summer rebuild and may prompt further defensive signings as Chelsea ready the squad for the upcoming season.